Many of us are operating at full throttle right now as we rush through the stores to find the items on our kids' holiday wish lists and plan for elaborate family dinners.
For those who are struggling to make ends meet, however, the holidays can be one of the most difficult times of year. Buying gifts and extra food is just not in the budget. Some families are worrying about more important things, such as where they will sleep that night, or where their next meal will come from.
December is the perfect time to extend the great spirit of giving beyond our homes and give together as families. And it's not too late. Here are five ideas that will help make the holidays brighter for those in need:
1. Donate Basic Supplies for Homeless Youth
Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets and YouthCare need items for their basic need supply closets, which house clothing and survival supplies for homeless youth who need them. Wool and synthetic socks, hats and undergarments; waterproof footwear, pants and coats; emergency blankets; sleeping bags; tents; and backpacks are especially in need. In addition, from now through Jan. 1, Wellspring Family Services is collecting new winter items for homeless children and families, such as coats, clothing, shoes and books.
2. Participate in a Giving Tree
Several giving tree campaigns have already wrapped up for the season, but there are a few big ones still accepting gifts. The giving tree drive at University Village, which provides gifts for Childhaven, the Children's Home Society, FamilyWorks and more, runs through Dec. 20. The giving tree at The Gates Foundation Visitor Center runs through Dec. 24. Getting to shop for local kids in need will make a big impact on your children.
3. Bring Hope to the Table at QFC
Chances are you'll be shopping for items on your holiday meal list soon. Food Lifeline and QFC offer an easy and convenient way to help feed local families: Donate $1 or $5 or buy a $10 virtual bag of groceries while you check-out; or, purchase a special pre-made bag full of wholesome food that local food banks have requested. Just put it in the donation bin on your way out of the store. Buy specially marked wine and beer and a portion of your purchase goes to Food Lifeline. The Bringing Hope to the Table campaign runs through Dec. 28.
Youthcare / The Salvation Army |
4. Put Some Change in the Red Kettle
The Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign is operating with five fewer days this year due to a late Thanksgiving holiday. This timing, along with widespread winter storms in early December, could lead to a shortfall of $20 million, a large drop from previous years. The Salvation Army bell-ringers raising money from shoppers throughout the country are a staple during the holidays. Have the kids drop in some extra change or bills and help raise money for toys, food, clothing and other life necessities for people in need.
5. Bag Up Your Winter Clothes for Donating
If your closet is home to coats, hats, gloves and warm winter clothes that your kids have outgrown, put those items to good use by contributing them to a local winter drive. Donating cold weather gear is an easy way to directly benefit kids in your community. These places are currently seeking gently-used winter clothes and outerwear: St. Joseph's Baby Corner in Seattle, WestSide Baby in West Seattle, Clothes for Kids in Lynnwood, Northshore Baby Corner in Bothell and Eastside Baby Corner in Issaquah.
Taryn Zier is website editor at Seattle’s Child and mother of two children, ages 7 and 9. She helps run the Northshore Baby Corner, which provides basic necessities to north end families in need.
