USA Today has a piece about how the weakening value of the US dollar is affecting missionaries abroad. While some exporters can thrive in these economic conditions, it's not good news for missionaries and relief organizations:

It takes $1.47 to match a euro — a loss of more than 35% in buying power [compared to 2002]. The cost of everything from saltine crackers to the monthly heating bill has skyrocketed.

In response, missionaries have cut back wherever they can.

Susan Jett, a Southern Baptist missionary to Germany currently on furlough in Knoxville, says she quit buying necessities like clothes and even sending mail. "I don't mail anything back home," she said. "I wait for someone who is flying back and send it with them."

Jett said it's the cost of small things, such as day-to-day basics, like milk and bread, that add up. "I have to think twice before buying anything."

Ouch. Christmas does not leave most Americans with an excess of cash—but if you've got some lying around, it sounds like even a small bit of financial help would be appreciated. Your friendly local church can probably connect you to a missionary who could use some help.