As more people shop online, the number of packages stolen continues to rise.

According to home security company Vivint, thieves stole 260 million packages last year, with an estimated value of $19.5 billion.

To keep your packages safe this holiday season, experts suggest having them shipped to a P.O. box or the store where the item was purchased.

Installing security cameras around your home can also be a theft deterrent.

Another option is to pay for upgraded shipping protection.

Good Morning Cleveland anchor Mike Brookbank spoke with local State Farm agent Ryan Flynn about adding coverage for stolen packages to homeowner's insurance.

"The nice thing about having those jewelry policies or personal articles policies if you are ordering jewelry around the holidays is that those often don't require any deductible," said Flynn. "That means you could file a claim, get something repaired or even replaced in the event of a theft without paying out of pocket for a deductible."

If any packages are stolen from your home, contact the sender. Some companies may be willing to work with you to cover the loss.

If you purchased a stolen item with your credit card, most credit card companies can get your money back.

You should also file a police report, especially if the theft was caught on camera.

In a Facebook post now shared more than 200,000 times, a Cuyahoga Falls native compiled a list of food bank must-haves and those items you might want to hold off donating.

"I love people are talking about the needs of the hungry this holiday season," said Kristin Warzocha, Greater Cleveland Food Bank CEO.

The trending topic on social media is appreciated at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, where demand is the highest it has ever been in its 40-plus-year history.

First up on that list: mac and cheese.

It may be a popular staple, but some claim they can't prepare it because it needs milk and butter. But it's not always a bad thing to give.

"Oftentimes they may have some of the real basics at home, so something like a box of mac and cheese can be put to good use," said Warzocha.

Canned goods are always among the top donated item, but there's concern about opening them if a can opener is hard to come by.

"When we're distributing food in our backpack for kids program, we almost exclusively distribute food with pop tops," said Warzocha.

While some food pantries are well stocked with jars of peanut butter and jelly, the post reminds people that bread might be hard to come by.

News 5 learned that's not the case in Cleveland.

"I'll say we distribute truckloads of bread every week," said Warzocha.

If you plan to collect food for the hungry during the holidays, here's where you may want to start: peanut butter, cereal, pasta, canned soup, canned fruits and vegetables.

The Greater Cleveland Food Bank also takes personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies and diapers.

"When someone is struggling to put food on the table, chances are very high they are struggling to cover their other basic needs as well," said Warzocha.

Warzocha said if you want to make the biggest impact, you should donate money.

Every dollar donated can purchase four nutritious meals.

"When we buy by the semi load, we're paying a lot less than someone pays at the grocery store," said Warzocha.

For those who still insist on donating items, don't just clean out your pantry, box it up, and stop by the food bank. Make sure it's food you would serve your family.

"We get things that are dated a long, long, long time ago," said Warzocha.

The Fourth of July is typically a time for all to enjoy. So often it involves friends, family, food, drinks, fireworks and plenty of sunshine. Its one of the best times of the year for most, but that certainly doesnt include your pets.

The Cleveland Animal Protective League wants to remind you that the family you will be spending time with this weekend does include your pets, and they shouldnt be forgotten about. With fireworks, large crowds and plenty of other activities going on, this can be a tough weekend for pets.

To keep your pets happy and healthy over the Fourth of July, the Cleveland APL released a few tips to keep in mind:

Make sure your pet is wearing an up-to-date ID.

Never use fireworks around pets!

Loud, crowded fireworks displays are no fun for pets

Turn on soft music, air conditioning, or fans

Move your pet to an interior room with no windows and make sure they are secure

Try having your pet wear an anti-anxiety vest,

Allow your pet to hide!

Make an appointment with your veterinarian well in advance of the holiday to discuss medicine or other supplements that might help with anxiety.

Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended where pets can reach them.

Do not apply sunscreen or insect repellent to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals.

Always keep matches and lighter fluid out of your pets reach.

Do not put glow jewelry on your pets or allow them to play with it.

Following these tips will not only help you have a better holiday weekend, but your pets as well.

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