The Charity Navigator, a nonprofit organization that evaluates charities, reports that it is usually the food banks, shelters and other human-services agencies that hurt the most during bad times.

Earlier this year, Newsweek reported that overall donations are down compared with last year; and the Giving USA Foundations found in a study that donations don't keep up with the rate of inflation during recessions. The possibility of deflation is also a sign of impending trouble for all of us.

We here at the United Rescue Mission in downtown Los Angeles are facing extremely difficult times. More folks, especially families, are coming to us in need at this time. We've added another floor to house families devastated by the economic downturn, at a time when giving is way down.

We can't cut back on programs or services because the rest of the world and our fellow human beings need us more than ever.

It is more important than ever to remember that we are all in this together and that there are many ways to make a difference: donating time, offering a kind word or an experience that helps someone take a step back from their situation. Every effort by individuals and organizations makes a difference, particularly in the aggregate.

On Saturday at the United Rescue Mission's annual Thanksgiving dinner, dozens of organizations are contributing personal services and practical contributions to help the 3,500 homeless men, women and children expected to attend.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has rallied its staff, more than a dozen vendors and outside partners to make the meal extra special - particularly for the kids.

The studio's licensing and merchandising arm, L'Oreal and Panasonic, and events companies Ocean Park Productions, Catch The Moment and Party Devine are among the organizations that are transforming our annual event's Kids Zone into "Whoville." This is community that appears to be right out of the hit animated film "Horton Hears A Who!" Every participant has donated time, goods or their services to support the mission's efforts. It's a gift that keeps on giving, as the effort will extend beyond the one-day event to support the mission through the holiday season, including its annual Christmas efforts and its extension housing Hope Gardens.

A donation is meaningful, no matter how big or small.

Happy Thanksgiving, bless you!