Giving back by volunteering embraces the true meaning of the holiday season. For many people, the holiday season is truly the most wonderful time of the year, as it is a time to get together with family and friends, practice gratitude and feel thankful for all that you have and spend some quality time together before ringing in the New Year. Not to mention, the exchanging of gifts between family and friends!
While many can relate to this, it is important to remember that this does not ring true for all families. Some may not have the means to give gifts, and some may even be worrying about keeping their families warm during the cold winter months. During this time, it is important to remember to give back where you can and think about these families that are in need.
There are so many reasons why volunteering is important during the winter months. For one, it will alleviate some stress for families during the holiday season, allowing them to indulge in some nice, hearty meals.
If you are looking for some ideas on how you can get involved with volunteering this winter, we have pulled some together. Check them out here:
1 – Build blizzard boxes.
In New England, you truly never know when the next blizzard may come about, and when we are faced with piles and piles of snow, it can make it hard, and sometimes even prevent, community programs from delivering food to those in need. Having blizzard boxes available for families to have on hand in these cases can be beyond helpful!
So, what goes into a blizzard box? A blizzard box should hold food and necessities that are non-perishable and can be used in case of emergency. This can include water bottles, a flashlight (with some extra batteries), and food items such as peanut butter, canned soups, powdered mix such as pancake or cake, packaged pastas, cereal, granola bars, baby food, and more.
2 – Donate toys.
Holiday shopping can be expensive, and for some families it is not doable at all in this economy. For families who struggle to purchase gifts for their loved ones, and especially their kids, donating can make all the difference. You can give back by shopping for new toys to hand out to children this holiday season, or even donating gently used toys that your family no longer uses. And remember, you do not have to wait until the holiday season to donate toys, as many community groups collect year-round for children in need!
3 – Help out at a food shelter.
Food shelters are always an amazing way to give back via volunteering, especially during the winter months as you will find that more people are flocking to the indoors to stay warm. Whether you are volunteering in person at the food shelter or donating food to the food shelter, any form of help can make a positive impact. Check with your local shelter to see what you can do specifically, and what food they need the most during the holiday season.
4 – Knit warm accessories.
Do you know how to knit? If so, your talent can go a long way! Take some time to knit some scarves, mittens, or hats, that people can take advantage of during the winter. These warm accessories are key to preserving as much heat as possible during the cold New England months. If you do not know how to knit, consider donating gently used warm accessories that you may not use as much anymore.
5 – Have a coat drive.
Whether you want to host a coat drive in your neighborhood, among your own family and friends, or help out at your kid’s school, this is a great way to give back to low-income families that cannot afford a good-quality coat to keep them warm. Encourage people to donate new or gently used coats and work with your local groups to give to families.
There are so many ways you can actively be involved with volunteering in your community. The most important thing is that you get involved!