The holiday season should be a magical time, but for some, it can be stressful. With inflation at an all-time high, many families are struggling to put food on the table let alone buy presents for their children and loved ones. Spread joy this holiday season with these 5 ways you can give back.
One of the most well-known ways to give back notably during the holidays, is donating. Donating can be very broad from food to gifts and even time, and there are several ways to go about it.
Food donations are the most important and best way to donate today. According to the USDA, more than 34 million people, including 9 million children, in the United States are food insecure. With the impact of the economy on Americans, this number continues to increase. Go through your pantry or the aisles at your local grocery store and select the non-perishable food items to donate.
Gather up the kiddos and have them go through their unused toys. Use this as a teachable moment that many other children may not be as fortunate as they are, and why giving back to those in need is important. Next, head to your nearest children’s hospital or shelter to deliver the toys and put a smile on those beautiful tiny faces.
Another option, if you do or don’t have children, and would still like to make a difference in a child’s life this season, you can definitely do so. Take some time out of your day to purchase a few toys or visit the link below and make a donation to the Toys for Tots Foundation.
To learn more about Toys for Tots or to donate today, visit Marine Toys for Tots.
Throughout the year, but especially during the holiday season, there are various soup kitchens that would greatly appreciate the help to feed the hungry. Whether it’s volunteering time or donating food items, this is a great way to give back to those who are less fortunate. To find a kitchen near you, visit www.wheelsforwishes.org.
Adopting a family during the holidays is an amazing way to give back. To get started, you’ll need to register with an organization or charity that hosts families. You’ll be matched with a family in need to provide gifts and other essentials. To learn more, research “Adopting a family for the holidays near me.”
Here are other resources to help you along the way:
Many people get so caught up with the gifts and decorating that they forget the true meaning of the holidays. It’s a time to worship and celebrate your beliefs, no matter what they are, with the people you love. It’s about cherishing those moments and making memories that will last a lifetime. You may think that donating time doesn’t mean as much, but it’s the most valuable thing we have. Spending quality time building lasting memories with loved ones during the holidays is the most special gift you can give.
Spreading joy this holiday season doesn’t have to be an expensive or grandiose gesture. Anything you can pass along can make someone’s day extra special.
Here are some simple, yet impactful ways you can spread joy.
Be kind and spread joy because you never know what someone may be going through. A simple smile or kind gesture can light up someone’s world and bring joy into their life.