The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration and joy. Unfortunately, for many around the world and in North Texas, this isn’t always the reality. Many individuals and families face challenges that can be especially difficult during the holiday season. However, the good thing is that we can help change this! By giving back, we can help those around us this holiday season. Here are 5 ways to spread some love for the holidays:
Visit a Nursing Home
The holiday season can be a very difficult time for the elderly in nursing homes. They may not get to be with their families, or might not have families at all. By volunteering at a nursing home, you can help them feel supported and included in the holiday celebrations. There are many nursing homes to volunteer at around Dallas/Fort Worth, including Flower Mound Assisted Living and Sunrise Senior Living.
Donate to a Charity
Donating money or specific items to a charity is a way to help those in need. Organizations like Toys for Tots have donation bins all around Dallas/Fort Worth to collect toys for children this holiday season. Other charities that accept donations include DFW Metroplex Angel Tree and Community Storehouse.
Support Those in Hospitals
Being in the hospital, or having a loved one in the hospital, is a tough situation at any time. However, during the holidays, it can be especially difficult. You can help these individuals and families by volunteering at a hospital, or donating gifts. St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital accepts donations for the holidays, and even has a Christmas Wish List of specific items to send. Some other organizations that support those in hospitals and their families are Ronald McDonald House and Cook Children’s.
Volunteer at an Animal Shelter
Animals can use some love this holiday season, too! There are plenty of ways to help animals in need, which includes volunteering at an animal shelter. A few animal shelters that you can volunteer at in DFW are the SPCA of Texas, Dallas Pets Alive, and the Humane Society of North Texas.
Contribute to a Food Bank
Having enough access to food is a challenge for many in North Texas. One excellent way to help those who need food during the holidays is to contribute your time or donations to a food bank. Food banks you can help around the metroplex include North Texas Food Bank, and Tarrant Area Food Bank.