Supporting those in need in your community is a lovely idea any time of year, but the end of the year is the perfect time to choose a charity or cause to contribute to. Whether you have funds or time to give this holiday season, here are some deserving causes you can support.
Food Pantries
Families all over the country will get together for the holidays to enjoy a delicious meal together, but not everyone is fortunate enough to have food to put on the table. If you’re able, supporting your local food pantry is a great way to help those in need.
Your family can volunteer your time with a soup kitchen to prepare and distribute meals to families in need. If that’s not an option, you can always donate food or funds to help food pantries provide meals. Think about how rewarding it would be to know you played a part in helping a family in need eat a warm, tasty meal this holiday season.
Children’s Issues
Everyone can have a great time during the holidays, but no one gets into the magic of the season quite like kids. That’s why helping less-fortunate children in the holiday season is such a worthy cause.
Both local and national organizations help provide holiday cheer to children and families in the area. You may be familiar with organizations like Toys For Tots, which provides gifts to underprivileged children who wouldn’t otherwise get any presents. You can support organizations like these by buying and donating new, unwrapped toys or simply donating money.
If you choose to buy gifts to donate, that is a great way to get your own kids involved and show them the value of giving. They could pick out gifts that they think kids their age might like and learn how important it is to help those in need.
Veterans Organizations
The holiday season is also a great time to think about giving back to the veterans who make our celebrations possible through their service to our country. If you’re interested in supporting veteran organizations during the holidays, there are plenty of nonprofits you can give your time or funds to. Try contacting your local United Service Organization branch or recruiter. They will likely have a list of programs that help veterans that you can donate to, including homeless or disabled veterans.
Pets
People aren’t the only ones in need during the holidays. Pets need help, too. If you want to help animals in need during the holidays, you have plenty of options. You can volunteer at a rescue shelter, donate funds or necessary supplies like food to shelters, or even foster an animal until they find their forever home. Contact your local shelter to see how you can help this holiday season.
Supporting The Community
At SMF Insurance, we believe in being responsible to our local community and providing support all year long. This holiday season, join us in giving our neighbors in need a helping hand if you can. Your time and funds are greatly appreciated. For more tips and our latest updates, visit us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn!
