The Holiday season is a time for giving. Giving gift to your family and loved ones is great, but how about those that don't have families or loved ones to spend the season with? There are so many ways you can give back to others this Holiday season

1. Bring small gifts to a local nursing home

It's a very sad fact that many seniors in nursing homes do not get visited on Christmas, and probably don't even get a present. Bringing small gifts like books or snacks to a nursing home and spending sometime with the residents can really makes somebodies day!

2. Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots is a wonderful program started by the United States Marines that donates toys to families that can't afford to buy presents. The program has expanded to encompass so many donations spots. Just driving down the street I pass at least three donation locations. Toys for Tots is a very easy way to bring joy to a family that otherwise wouldn't be able to have a Christmas.

3. Volunteer or donate food to a homeless shelter

During the holiday season when you go home and visit family, many do not think about those who have no family or home to go to. Many homeless people spend their holidays in shelters and food pantries just trying to get out of the cold. By volunteering your time or even donating some food you are providing them with the best Christmas they could imagine at this time in their lives: a warm place to be and a hot meal to eat.

4. Send holiday cards to our troops

Many troops do not get the privilege to go home and see their family for the holidays. There are many programs that allow individuals to send cards and presents to the troops just to show the respect and gratitude we have towards them for serving our country and allowing us to celebrate Christmas in a safe place.

5. Donate to a cause

This is something my family and I do every year. This is the holiday for giving, and giving back to organizations that you value is a great way to give back this holiday season. My family and I usually donate to Shriner's or St.Jude because of how much they do for the families and patients to ensure that the kids and parents can focus on getting better, rather than the stress of medical bills. Many of the donations they receive go to aiding families in paying for the treatments or procedures they may need.