Charitable ways to give back this Christmas
Category Lifestyle
Christmas is a season for giving. But there is a form of giving that goes well beyond providing gifts and things. It's about forming relationships with those around us, fostering a feeling of belonging, and offering support to everyone, no matter who they are or what they are going through.
Whether it's a Shoebox Santa to a children's home, pet food to the local SPCA, or a food hamper, there are many ways you can make a difference in someone's life this Christmas.
- Donate your unwanted gifts
Have you been given any things that you don't need or that you have undesired goods stowed away? We've all received presents we won't use, so you're not alone. Donate them to a charity of your choice rather than throwing them out or letting them sit around collecting dust.
Most local organizations accept donations of furniture, electronics, and clothing. You may also look up how a certain charity collects donations online if you have a specific organization in mind.
- Be a Secret Santa
Do you know someone who is having difficulties this Christmas season? Why not brighten their day by serving as their personal Secret Santa? This means presenting them with a particular gift while remaining anonymous to them. You might be able to clear one of their unpaid obligations or send a care package to their home or place of employment if they're overburdened with stress due to financial or emotional issues.
These simple, impromptu acts of kindness may make a great difference and last a lifetime, no matter how small.
- Give a Christmas Shoebox
Many organizations participate in the Santa Shoebox project if you're wanting to assist a deserving cause. In South Africa, Santa Shoeboxes are distributed to disadvantaged kids and contain items like a toothbrush, facecloth, toothpaste, soap, candies, toys, educational materials, and clothing. Each package is typically personally delivered to the recipient kid, and what makes this philanthropic deed so unique is that you will be made aware of the beneficiary child's name, age, and gender.
- Support local businesses
For many businesses, the holiday season is their busiest time of the year. During the holiday season, support small local businesses by shopping at locally owned, independent stores; you may discover some hidden treasures in the process. For a fun holiday day of shopping and snacking, check out the local Christmas markets in your neighbourhood.
- Plan a Christmas party for charity
Do you enjoy entertaining friends and family for special events? Why not host a dinner party in support of a good cause and invite your friends to make donations? Make invitations, decide on a contribution amount, and plan a buffet full of your favourite treats. Get together this December, raise as much money as you can for a worthwhile cause, and toast to the holiday season.
- Purchase gifts that help others
Giving gifts that support charitable organizations and initiatives can give your Christmas a deeper sense of purpose. This may be accomplished by shopping for gifts that give a portion of the income to the less fortunate in the process. You may even go green this Christmas by purchasing environmentally friendly goods.
Even the tiniest acts of kindness may have a significant impact on someone's Christmas, whether it's visiting an elderly neighbour, doing their shopping, cooking an extra meal for someone, or even making a phone call to someone in need. Give what you can this Christmas and check in with those you haven't seen or spoken to in a long time. Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof wishes you and your loved ones a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Author: Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof
