Late spring through the summer months rarely fail to usher new faces into a neighborhood. Often, whether out of politeness to let them “get settled” or out of nervousness sprouted by a natural fear of the unknown, the opportunity to welcome the new arrivals is missed. Once the initial few months have passed, the idea of ringing their doorbell can seem even more daunting.

Knowing our neighbors and opening the door for them to know us is an important part of building a true community, one of the potential benefits of living in a neighborhood or subdivision. That first brave contact paves the way for new friendships, a safer community and mutual appreciation. Being willing to speak, to wave and to behave thoughtfully can go a long way.

The next time someone new moves into a home near you, try reaching out with a few of the timeless suggestions below.

• Gather information. Stop by the Chamber of Commerce for a map of the area and a copy of the latest Community Guide. Get an application for a library card and any other handouts while you’re there. Grab fliers and brochures from several banks, stores, restaurants and other frequent stops. Toss in a copy of the phone book as well. Many times, books are not provided to the new owners. Finally, gather all of the local papers and free publications that you have found helpful in the past. Providing information can help a family transition to the area much more easily and establishes you as a person willing to answer questions in the future.

• Bring gifts. Besides saying hello and introducing yourself and your family, take a gift to the new residents. Maybe carry a meal over to them during the afternoon on moving day or the day after. Bake a loaf of bread or a sweet treat like brownies. The first few days, and sometimes weeks, of a move can make preparing a meal difficult. Bringing food lets them know you care about their well being.

• Offer a hand. Whether you can help carry furniture in from the moving truck or pull weeds from the flower bed, offer your helping hands as a gesture of friendship and welcome. To discover even more ideas, recall a time when you moved and think of ways you would have loved for someone to help you.

• Give names and numbers. Besides your own contact information, written down so the new neighbors don’t have to recall it later to write it down for themselves, offer information about the neighborhood. Information like who has kids close to the ages of their own, when the home owners’ association meets and what time schools begins and buses run can be very helpful.