Holiday Donation and Volunteer Ideas: From Canned-Food to Clothing Drives

For many of us, the holiday season is a busy time filled with work, shopping, holiday events and family traditions. However, there are those who are less fortunate who must rely on the generosity of others to get them through the holidays. For these folks, basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter take priority over gift giving and sipping warm cider by a roaring fire.

Although many of us want to help, our own purse strings may be tighter this time of year. The cost of gasoline and heating our homes continues to increase while our paychecks remain the same. However, the desire to help others is ever present. Here are a few tips about how can you give back without breaking the bank.

Donate canned goods or dry to a local food pantry. For less than $5, you could provide several meals worth of canned vegetables or fruits to a needy family. Even something as simple as a box of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese could help keep a family from going hungry over the holiday season.

Donate used coats, hats and scarves to local shelters. Go through your closets and coat racks and gather all the used coats, hats and scarves you have not worn in ages. Make sure they are clean and in good condition, and look for a drop box for the items in local stores. You could also try calling local shelters about how to donate the items.

Donate your spare or lose change. Take what change is left over from your latest purchases and set it aside each day. By the end of the month, you will be surprised at how much money you have accumulated. Donate the spare change to a local charity or to the Salvation Army.

Donate a toy. Inspire a child this holiday season by donating a new toy to Toys for Tots. Make a quick stop at a local department store like Target or Kmart while you are in the midst of your weekly errands and pick up something for a child who would otherwise get nothing. Better yet, donate a toy and ask your business to be a drop-off location for Toys for Tots.

Volunteer your time. One of the best ways to give back this holiday season and year round is by donating your time. Offer to drive meals to those who cannot get out of their homes. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen. Help stock the shelves and organize donations at your local food pantry. Whatever time you can give will be appreciated.