It's been nasty outside for a couple of weeks now, and unfortunately with this week's forecast it looks like we have a few more days left indoors. So  If you're a parent wondering how to keep your little ones engaged indoors, here's a fantastic idea that involves both creativity and compassion for your neighbors.

West Michigan's own Kids' Food Basket is reaching out to the community, seeking donations of plain paper bags. If you don't know about this charity, they help feed less fortunate children in our area with healthy meals, giving them a sense of safety and community. These meals often help on snow days when kids don't have access to meals at school. For some kids, this may be one of the only meals they get that day.

Kids Food Basket
Kids Food Basket
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And these paper bags bags won't just be any ordinary bags—they're asking you to transform them into vessels of goodness by decorating them yourself or with your kiddos. After that they'll be filled with nutritious food for children across West Michigan.

They're encouraging everyone to keep it simple and fun. You can head to your local grocery store, grab some paper lunch bags, and let your child's artistic flair shine through with markers, crayons, or any art supplies you have on hand.

Kids Food Basket
Kids Food Basket
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Once the bags are adorned with colorful creations, take a trip to one of the three Kids Food Basket locations—whether you're in Ottawa County, King County, or Muskegon County—and drop off your masterpieces.

It's a simple yet impactful way to turn a potential snow day into an opportunity for both creativity and generosity. Click here if you want more information on how you can help.

Need ideas of places to go after you're done crafting?

Check Out All These Kid-Friendly Museums in Michigan

Whether you're looking for local children's museum where you can take the kiddos for an afternoon, or looking for an excuse to take a road trip to another part of the state, Michigan offers a wide selection of kid-friendly museums where you and the family can lose yourselves.

Gallery Credit: George McIntyre