Gathered around the living room, many family and friends are beginning to exchange their holiday gifts with one another. For many, this is a far cry from reality given the unfortunate circumstances they find themselves in. This is reason enough to get involved in donating and giving back during the holidays. There are numerous ways to get both family and friends to help give during the Christmas season. Below are just a few ways that you can help spread some holiday cheer this season.
With over 2.7 million children across the country who have both Mother’s and Fathers incarcerated, the Angel Tree helps to ensure these kids feel cared for. By simply selecting an angel from the tree you can help purchase the desired gift for one of these children. The child will find the gift under their tree on Christmas morning with it titled from his or her incarcerated parent. This will be an extra special holiday surprise as the child will see that their parent is thinking of them.
Perhaps one of the most touching charities that can be donated to this time of year is Make-A-Wish. This foundation focuses on creating life long memorable experiences for children with critical illnesses. When donating to this charity, the money is used to help fulfill the dreams of these children. Companies such as TopGolf, Discover Card, and Best Western contribute a percentage to the Make-A-Wish foundation when purchases are made through them.
As thousands of individuals take to wrapping in their nice warm blankets during this holiday season, many children are forced to brave the cold. Project Linus is a wonderful organization that has donated over 350 blankets each month for the past 20 years. Friends and family can get involved by donating monetarily, or crafting a blanket for the charity to give a child in need.
Children in foster care face a great amount of uncertainty pertaining to their future. During this time of year it can feel twice as lonely. One Simple Wish lets these kids know that they are not alone in this journey, there is someone who is thinking about them this holiday season. Donors have the opportunity to fulfill a child’s wish by granting a gift.