Ideas for Improving Recession Revenue

I have made a resolution to stop watching the nightly news. I just cannot tolerate being inundated with gloom and doom on a daily basis. The American economy is definitely in crisis, that is not up for debate. Things are difficult right now-no argument here. What infuriates me is the same message day in and day out. We realize the state of affairs-now please nightly news-WHAT CAN WE DO, EACH INDIVIDUAL TO CHANGE IT. If they would focus on how all of us can get the most (really) out of the income we are bringing in; or they could focus on what others are doing to make ends meet. Here is another one-try showcasing all of the GOOD deeds and acts of kindness. My point is that we need an idea of what we can do to manage and also some news about people being amazing human beings and not deplorable ones.
It is with that in mind that I have thought of a few things that may do both (help people manage their income and have a bright spot in their day). The first is not new, but may be for some. It is a clothing exchange. You organize a few friends and ask them to clean out their closet (it is time for spring cleaning) of any unwanted/unused clothing. All of the friends then meet and display what you have brought. It is great because if you want something fresh to wear, or need some new clothes (weight gain or weight loss) you can get them at no cost to you or your friends. The second idea is a food swap. I have a two year old with constantly changing taste buds. What she devours this week may just not taste good next week. I always have food that will not be used by my family before it expires. If everyone gathered up their groceries twice a month and swapped with each other just imagine the amount of waste that would be reduced. We as Americans consume far more than we actually NEED-that is a problem! We should all try to reduce our wastefulness.
I have now stepped down from my imaginary soap box (hold your applause please). My family has a close and dear friend who is having a very difficult time of it right now. His home is not only in foreclosure, but he also has diabetes and this week he was told that he has MS. He is a wonderful, hardworking husband and father of three. I am asking everyone that I know to pray for him and his family.
I must end this posting for now but not before I urge all of America to love and care for each other. We are all in this together and we will only make it through this dark and difficult night by leaning on each other.