What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about December? For most of us, it’s family, friends, festivities, and gifts. Whether it be for Hanukkah, Christmas, or Kwanzaa, the holiday season is when we all come together to celebrate. However, as fortunate, and lucky as some of us may be, we never really stop to think about how tough it is for some families and individuals during this time.
Even though it’s impossible to help every single family in need, there are still many ways that you, your friends, and your family can give them something to look forward to. With just a simple Google search, you can find plenty of non-profit charities to choose from. Below, I’ve listed seven of my top charities and organizations for those of you who don’t have the time to look but would still love to bless a family in need.
- Toys for Tots – I’m sure most of you have heard of this charity before as it is one of the most common ones. In case you haven’t, this is a non-profit charity that fundraises and accepts donations for children who are less fortunate. On their website, you can find drop-off locations near you, volunteer to help out your local Toys for Tots campaign, or apply online to receive a donation of your own.
- Be An Elf – This charity is a program that was created by the United States Postal Service (USPS) in 1912. Be an Elf allows for you, the “elf,” to read letters that are written to Santa from children or parents, and volunteer to mail them what they ask for. The letters sent out are commonly asking Santa for toys or basic necessities such as blankets and warm clothes. To volunteer as an elf, donate money to help the organization grow, or seek gifts for yourself or anyone you know who is in need, follow the link above.
- Salvation Army – The Salvation Army is another common charity. If it helps “ring a bell,” you can normally find individuals fundraising outside of your local grocery stores during November and December. This charity provides help in tons of ways from rent assistance to providing shelter for the homeless. However, their most known donations come from food pantries and their angel tree program in collaboration with Walmart. Their website has all the information you need to donate, become a fundraiser, or seek assistance.
- Trees for Troops – If you or someone you know is military personnel, then this is the perfect program to know about! The Trees for Troops program has provided free and real Christmas trees to members of the armed forces and their families for almost two decades. Following the link, you can find participating locations for Trees for Troops Weekend where you can buy a tree and attach a tag with a special message, donate online, or find a military base to get a tree of your own.
- One Simple Wish – In Arizona alone there are over 13,500 children in the foster care system. Imagine how many there are in total all around the United States! One Simple Wish helps these children by helping their wishes come true during the holidays and year-round. Through their website, you can find ways to volunteer, donate to their scholarship fund, purchase/donate a family or child’s wish gift, or submit a wish of your own.
- Pay Away the Layaway – Layaway was established to help families and individuals purchase items but pay the full costs at a late date. Although this service isn’t as popular as it was over a decade ago, some stores still partake. The Pay Away program allows individuals to donate and help pay off layaway balances that include children’s items. To donate one time or monthly, visit their website.
- Local Food Pantries – Giving gifts isn’t the only way to help spread holiday cheer! Food insecurity is an issue that progresses every year. However, there are many ways to help out in your local community. Following the link, you can find a variety of food pantries to donate to, volunteer at or receive your own donation.