The holidays are a wonderful time to reflect on all we have to be thankful for, but it also provides an opportunity to remember the struggle of those who lack what many of us take for granted. As our nation climbs its way back from the worst recession in a generation, many people are struggling to make ends meet. But no matter how bad things may seem, there’s always someone whose situation is worse than our own. So this year, let’s appreciate the many blessings we do have and teach our children to have a sense of compassion and empathy towards the less fortunate.
Here are ten budget-friendly ways we can help:
- Volunteer your time and effort at places such as a local shelter for the homeless or abused women and children, a retirement home, a soup kitchen or a children’s hospital. Volunteer Match is a good resource to find the right place for you and your family to donate your time.
- Search your home for extra or unwanted items to donate such as clothing, toys, blankets, books, magazines, eyeglasses, school supplies, non-perishable food, and personal hygiene items such as soap and toothpaste.
- Organize a food or toy drive at your office, church, temple, school or recreation center.
- The Red Cross is often short on blood and plasma. Giving a donation could save someone’s life.
- Use your talents, skills or services to help the less fortunate. For example, if you are a hairdresser, you can arrange to give free haircuts. Someone can always benefit from your skills or expertise.
- Many large charities such as The Make-A-Wish Foundation and UNICEF have online shops so you can get something nice for your loved ones while supporting their charitable programs.
- If you have someone in your family, circle of friends or community is having an especially difficult time this year, lend them a helping hand.
- Lactating women can donate breast milk to the National Milk Bank, which provides breast milk to babies who are premature or critically ill.
- Animals are in need too. Consider adopting a pet or donating food, blankets, towels or your time to a local animal rescue organization.
- Depression and suicide rates are highest during the holiday season. A friendly smile or wave to a stranger could really brighten someone’s day and even save a life.
What ways do you or your family give back? Please share by leaving a comment below!