There are so many people in need all over the world that any small gesture you make to give back will be worth more than you think. You don’t need to solve the problems worldwide, just start within your own immediate community.

The holidays are all about giving back and spreading cheer. It’s even written into many songs so it must be true! 😉 When you do some sort of charitable action, you’re simultaneously doing both of those things. At a time of the year that can easily be overshadowed by the urge to consume, finding a way to give back to your community can be quite rewarding.

So, here are five of the best ways that you can give back during the holidays.

5 Ways To Give Back To Your Community

1. Time

The most prized commodity you could ever give is your time. Donate a few hours to help out at a nearby homeless shelter. Alternatively, you can spend an afternoon with some residents or patients at a retirement home, children’s home or even the hospital.

Many people in those places need encouragement and a positive upbeat attitude can do just that. Others may not have family or have simply been forgotten and are lonely. Your time can mean so much and it’s such a simple thing that costs you nothing.

2. Toys Or Other Gifts

There are many parents who can’t afford to purchase gifts for their children. Think about your kid’s face Christmas morning as they rip open their presents. Now imagine how you would feel if you couldn’t provide that pleasure for them.

It would be heartbreaking.

As you shop for your own family, pick up a little something extra and take it to a nearby children’s home or shelter. You don’t need to spend a ton on these gifts. Many charities also collect toys to share among children for the holidays. Perhaps you could even run your own toy drive and ask others to donate.

Don’t just stop at toys, either. Lots of other items can be donated like baby formula, diapers, books and stationery for school. Use your imagination and give back what you can.

Food

In my family, the holidays are all about food. We cook big meals and have leftovers for days! Lavish dinners have become tradition for many people during the holidays.

All throughout the year, many people don’t have enough to eat but it can feel especially cruel during the holidays when that’s a huge focus. Give back to your community and donate food or work with a local food bank to help those who are hungry.

Clothes

The holidays occur during the coldest time of year. This is when warm clothing becomes critical to health and survival.

Many families have way more coats and sweaters than they really need. Go through your family’s old winter gear and donate items that are in good condition e.g. coats, sweaters, gloves, scarves and hats. Although any clothing that you no longer want will certainly be appreciated.

Money

The final item on my list of ways you can give back to the community is to donate money. During the year, set aside money for charitable donations. You can even add it into your holiday budget. Money is probably the best gift you can give because it allows charitable organizations to keep running and to purchase exactly what they need the most.

As much as we sometimes hate to admit it to ourselves, money does make the world go round and even charities need it. So give what you can. No amount is too small.

Finding ways to give back to the community is incredibly rewarding. Not only, will you feel great but you will actually be helping someone out there who really needs it.

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