It’s the season of giving, and there are so many deserving charities that it can be a daunting task to choose one. I personally like to donate to local charities, where I can see firsthand how my money is used. Many charities need time donations as much as monetary ones, so even if you can’t help financially, there are still ways you can get involved! Here are some very worthy charities if you’re looking for a way to give back this holiday season:
MedCamps of Louisiana
MedCamps serves children with medical needs ranging from asthma to Down syndrome. Camp Alabama, where MedCamps is located, is between Monroe and Ruston in Sibley, Louisiana. MedCamps provides the opportunity to go camping for kids who would otherwise never get to experience it. Thousands of children have benefitted from this program, and best of all, each of them has been able to go camping free of charge because of generous donations and the unwavering fundraising efforts of camp leaders.
Wiggin’ Out
Wiggin’ Out initially served cancer patients in Lincoln Parish, and it has now grown to serve patients all over northeast Louisiana. This non-profit provides wigs, prosthetic bras, and other items that cancer patients need. Men, women, and children are all eligible to apply for aid from Wiggin’ Out.
The Boys and Girls Club of North Central Louisiana
The Boys and Girls Club provides a safe after-school location for children. It enriches them by providing homework help, a library, dinner, sports, crafts, and more, and it’s located less than five minutes from campus. This is all funded by donations, and the staff are always incredibly grateful for any help they receive. If you can’t donate your money, the BGC has several annual events, such as Fall Fest, where they need volunteers to man the booths.
The Domestic Abuse Resistance Team
The Domestic Abuse Resistance Team, or DART, has several resources for victims of domestic abuse, including shelter, counseling, a 24-hour crisis line, and legal support. It specifically serves the north central Louisiana area. DART also endeavors to educate the community about domestic violence and ways to escape it. This nonprofit requests monetary donations, items such as food and cleaning supplies, and volunteers to help fundraise and do secretarial work.
The Humane Society Adoption Center of Monroe
The Humane Society in Monroe is conveniently located near the interstate and the mall. It’s a no-kill shelter that is much smaller than other shelters in the area. This is a great place to donate if you don’t necessarily want to give money, but you could afford to stockpile donation items over time. They ask for donations of small things like bleach, trash bags, dish soap, and towels. Other needs are dog food, grooming supplies, and dog houses.