I have no imagination at all but I know I don't want to go through any kind of program. I just want to do this on my own. I always think of making food and taking it to the part of my town where I know homeless people congregate but I'd rather try to help them in a different way because there are soup kitchens and Salvation Army very close by. Is there anything I can do that might benefit the needy long term? and I don't mean just homeless people. There are other needy people but I don't know how to do something for them.

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Well, since I am a liberal, I'll get shouted down, but oh well! The community can help those in need! Churches are supposed to be a resource for most towns and cities! They could help!
But people have pride, and it is hard to help someone who is trying to do the best they can! If someone needs help, I am sure they go to the best place to get what they need!
Just make sure you donate unwanted clothing to places like Dorcus,or clothing drives! And make sure the soup kitchens have plenty of resources to draw from ! As for the homeless? There are just not enough shelters for them! And there are too many empty and abandoned buildings that could be used! It seems selfish to let them stand empty and useless!

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Alrighty, then. You don't want to work in the soup kitchen. How about volunteering at the free clinic? What about Meals on Wheels, or driving the wheelchair bus to take someone to a doctor's appointment? You can cook meals for shut-ins. If you're adept with knitting needles, you could crochet or knit afghans or blankets or lap rugs or shoulder cozies.

Ask at your church if there's someone you can help, rather than going to large groups of people who need help. Sometimes it's easier and more rewarding to help just one person who might be quite grateful for your company and your assistance.

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