With the holidays rapidly approaching, it can be easy to take all that we have for granted. Items such as food and warm clothing are not affordable for everyone, so it is important that we strive to help our neighbors during what may be a difficult time.
We have to remind ourselves of how lucky we are to be able to afford necessities, and stay grateful. To show your gratitude, here are some ways you can give back to your community during the holidays.
- Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen
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During holidays such as Christmas, Hannukah or New Year’s, food can often cost more, causing soup kitchens to be in higher demand than usual. Reaching out to your local soup kitchen or food bank to volunteer is a simple way to help ensure they are able to stay on top of the increased need for meals.
However, Christmas is one of the most popular times for volunteers, occasionally leaving food banks overwhelmed. Planning to volunteer in the weeks before and after the holidays can make sure that you’re helping out in the most effective way, as food insecurity is a consistent issue and not limited to the exact holiday date.
- Donate Blood
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Donating blood is an easy, low-commitment way to help out your local blood banks during what is often a time of low donor availability. While patient needs remains the same over the holidays, previous donors are often sick or traveling, increasing the need for donors.
If you do choose to donate blood, make sure that you are feeling healthy and are properly hydrated.
- Fulfill an Angel Tree Wish
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Typically found in grocery stores, Angel Trees are a charity run by The Salvation Army to provide underprivileged children and senior citizens with gifts. Each Angel Tree tag states the individual’s age, gender and wish list, allowing you to choose who you purchase a gift for.
These wish lists often consist of toys, clothes or gift cards, and are an easy way to anonymously give back and make someone’s holiday season that much better. There is no limit to how many tags you can take on, so you can even fulfill multiple if you feel like taking an extra step.
- Donate Winter Clothes
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A big concern as the weather gets colder is whether or not a family will have the proper clothing to keep them warm in harsh temperatures. Donating winter coats, scarves, gloves or snow boots to your local non-profits can help ensure that you’re helping your fellow community members stay warm.
While a first reaction may be to donate to a thrift store or a Goodwill, donating to a location that gives these resources out for free can be more directly beneficial, as some people don’t have the funds to purchase the items, even at a discount.
- Volunteer at an Animal Shelter
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Whether cleaning out cages, walking the dogs or feeding the animals, volunteering at an animal shelter is a fun way to get involved in your community. The animals can get taken care of by someone who truly cares about them and get social interaction, helping during the colder months.
In addition, studies have shown that volunteering with animals can help lower stress levels and boost your mood, helping your mental health after a rough finals season.
- Donate Toys
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While toys are not necessary items like food or clothing are, they are still an important part of donating during the holidays. For underprivileged children, the simple joy that can come out of owning a new toy can help lift their mood immensely.
Giving back to your hometown through community service is an excellent way to practice thoughtfulness and gratitude. Completing community service can help your neighbor’s lives improve and boost your own mental health.
I hope that as you return home, you take some of these suggestions into consideration and decide to give back this holiday season.