'Tis the season to give to charity! With less than a month until December, we can't help but think about all the great gifts we are going to receive for Christmas. But, what about those who won't be receiving gifts? Those who are homeless, who lost their jobs or maybe those who are elderly may not be receiving gifts this year. The holiday season is about giving, and even if you only have a dime to spare, there are plenty of easy, affordable ways to give to those in need.
- CAPA
CAPA is the Child Abuse Prevention Association located in Beaufort, SC. Its mission is to break the destructive cycle of abuse and neglect towards children. CAPA creates a list each year of items in need for the mothers and children. Crayons, shampoo, books and body wash are an example of simple items you can donate to CAPA. If you live far away then there is also money donations which can be placed on the CAPA website.
2. Homeless Shelter
Ask about your local homeless shelter, and see if they need any help over winter break with stocking the pantry, cooking or serving. Most towns have at least one shelter and more tend to open up during the winter.
3. Food Banks
Donating canned goods is always an easy and cost-free job. Many churches and schools will be doing canned good drives through the year to supply food for those who can not afford it.
4. Angel Tree
Usually found within a church, the Angel Tree is a great way to give a kid a Christmas present they would love. The Angel Tree finds which gift the child would like to receive and the child's gender. After purchasing and wrapping the gifts they can be dropped off at the location of the tree.
5. Operation Christmas Child
A shoebox and some small gifts -- that's all you need. This popular holiday charity ships shoe boxes all over to children in orphanages, shelters, etc. Each child receives the box containing the presents on Christmas day. There's even a specific label which can be purchased to track your package and tell you who received it.
6. Nursing home
Whether it's playing cards or checkers, spend some time with your elders. Those in nursing homes often have few exciting opportunities to celebrate the holidays as they once did before. A simple gesture could remind them just why they love Christmas so much. It's a free way to give back and have fun while doing it.
7. Salvation Army
Toys for Tots has spread across the United States for years. It is a well-known seasonal donation of toys for children. Schools, churches and communities tend to hold donation boxes for children. All you have to do is buy a toy or two and drop it off at the nearest location box.
While you are planning your Christmas list, help create someone else's, too.
