When we are young, Christmas is special to us because we receive gifts we would not be able to afford during other times of the year. It is fun getting together with family we rarely see, making all different types of holiday cookies and enjoying what the year has provided us with. Now that I am older and wiser, Christmas and the holidays mean something more to me. To me, the season is meant to give, give back to those less fortunate than ourselves and those who we could not thank enough by just saying it. This season I decided to do more giving not only to my family members but also to people I did not know.

As we all know, people go all year with the bare minimum that they can have in order to get by. This year, I began purchasing fabric in the fall and making knot blankets (no-sew) which are going to be donated later this month to families with young children to help stay warm in these colder months that continue to approach us. It took a long time for me to figure out where and how I wanted to donate these blankets because some places are unable to accept handmade gifts and I wanted to donate back to a place who has helped me in ways I don't think a pure "thank you" would be acceptable. I have also made the decision that I want to give to the local Aids to Victims of Violence center before the holiday season ends. If you read my previous article, "What I Learned from my First Relationship", it would make sense that the reason I am giving back to them is because the helped me get out a situation that would have been very difficult to do without their support.

If you are unsure of places that will accept donations during the holiday season here is a list of places that you might be able to start with:

1.Local Hospital Organization

During the holiday season, many hospitals look for donations through money in all types of amounts. They are then able to help patients who need support with dialysis, women, and children, cancer services, or you can donate in memory of and anonymously. Any amount, small or large, will be accepted.

2. Toys for Tots

Is done by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve who donate toys to children whose families cannot afford to buy them gifts during the Christmas season. Donations can be made by either a money donation or by donating unopened toys.

3. Local Non-Profits

One non-profit that is located in my community is the county YWCA. During the holidays there are a multitude of ways to donate. The first is by donating money, which is simple. Another way of giving back is by picking up toys to be given to children where money is tight.

4. Food Banks

This is a great of giving back to others. Many people have a difficult time making the trips to the grocery store when they are on a tight budget. Often kids look forward to going back to school during their winter breaks because it is when they are given the most meals. Donate nonperishable items or help at a local food shelter.

All of these might not seem like a lot, and you honestly don't have to go out of your way to pend a fortune. These children will be thankful no matter what they receive during this time. That is what the holidays are really about. Giving to those who wish they could, and hoping that some day they can get on their feet and give back as well.