At Emory Glen, we know the holidays are a time of giving and gratitude, and even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on someone’s life. If you’re looking for ways to make a difference this season, here are some ideas followed by a list of Montgomery County charities that could use your support.
Spend time helping at local soup kitchens, shelters, or food banks. Offer your assistance at community events or holiday-themed gatherings organized by charities.
Help local food pantries make the holidays more joyful for families in need by contributing to food drives. Just put some extra non-perishable food items in your shopping basket and drop them off. If there isn’t a food drive in your community, organize one.
Donate new or gently-used toys to charities that distribute them to families in need. Toys for Tots and Operation Blue Elf both run toy drives during the holiday season.
If you’re cleaning out your closet for the holidays or an upcoming move, put aside lightly-used clothing that you don’t wear anymore. Instead, donate them to thrift stores, shelters, and local organizations.
Spending time with elderly residents in nursing homes or patients in hospitals who may not have family around during the holidays is a great way to get involved in the local community. To make someone’s day extra special, gift small presents or organize a group to sing Christmas carols.
Don’t have time to volunteer? Make monetary donations to charities and nonprofit organizations. Consider sponsoring a family or individual in need, providing them with financial assistance for the holidays.
Sure, Amazon is an easy way to shop, but you can do more for your community by shopping local. Doing so helps your neighbors and keeps your dollars in your community.
Use your skills to help others, such as offering free tutoring, mentoring, or professional advice. Some places such as Habitat for Humanity often need skilled carpenters, construction workers, or other trades people.
Perform random acts of kindness, such as paying for someone’s groceries or coffee. Consider leaving uplifting notes or small gifts in public spaces for others to find — a small gesture can completely change the spirit of someone having a bad day.
Next, check out these festive events happening in the area, and discover Magnolia’s must-visit mom and pop shops.