Around this time a year it is so easy to get caught up on making our wish lists, browsing the web for Christmas gifts for every special person on our list, and searching Pinterest for the cutest wrapping paper ideas. Don't get me wrong, I do all of these myself, but it is important to remember that there are others who are not as privileged as we are, and we need to do our part. I've complied a few suggestions for things that I can do to contribute to the community, help others in need, and keep myself grounded in what is most important in life because it is sure not the materialistic things.
- Donate.
This can be to a coat drive, can food drive, or even to the man or woman freezing outside to ring the Salvation Army bell.
- Volunteer.
Many organizations this time of year, and all year around, need additional hands. Volunteer at a homeless shelter, feed the hungry {find organizations in your area}, or help an organization organize a blanket, can food, or coat drive.
- Blessed Bags.
Google Image
I saw this idea on Pinterest. It was a big bag filled with every day essentials; tooth paste, tooth brush, deodorant, hairbrush, cold medicine, pain medicine, shampoo, conditioner, band aids, etc. The bag was gallon sized, but a great alternative would be a sandwich bag that way you could give more of the bags. Lately, I have noticed more and more people standing on the side of the road begging for help in any way. So many times I've turned my head, because I hate to see others hurting & I don't carry cash or have food in my car to give them. Keeping a small blessing bag in your car to hand out the window while you are sitting at the stop light can be just what that person needs. I plan to make some of these and include my favorite scripture verses inside for encouragement and reassurance.
- Visiting Nursing Homes.
You never know how much the residents of nursing homes or other residential facilities love seeing young people come in to visit them. Sit down and talk with them, go as a group to sing Christmas carols, or use your talents to play an instrument during their social time.
- Put your talents to good use.
If you like to cook or bake- make a dish or dessert for an elderly person you know.
If you are crafty- make small ornaments for the residents of nursing homes to hang on their door or take to the hospital for nurses to pass out to patients.
If you are musically talented - play during a dinner for the homeless.
Etc, etc, etc.
I could go on and on, but I just encourage you to do something for others this Christmas season. Most of us have a month off from school, so we have lots of free time to help others in need!
Don't forget to enter my giveaway to win lots of goodies for yourself this Christmas!
~ Addison
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Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something.
- Unknown
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not. - Dr. Seuss