As the holidays approach, you may be planning travel, getting together with family and friends and preparing a Thanksgiving meal. The holidays are also a time to think about how you can step up for those who need a helping hand.

St. Pete Free Clinic CEO Jennifer Yeagley said she has seen a steady increase in need for food assistance that’s coincided with climbing grocery costs and cost-of-living increases over the past year.

Raymond James, the St. Petersburg-based financial services firm, has launched a philanthropic initiative supporting local students and educational nonprofits.