The holiday spirit is all about giving. What better way to spread some cheer than by lending a hand to others? Here are some timely volunteer opportunities and ideas.
- Host a baking party to make treats for a drop-in program in your community.
- Volunteer at a local program that cooks and serves warm meals for people who are unhoused or experiencing food insecurity. Plan this early and call ahead, as it’s a popular volunteer activity around
the holidays for families. Consider going on an “off date,” like early in December or later in January and February. - Participate in a food drive by collecting non-perishable items like rice, pasta, beans, canned tuna, canned tomatoes and more.
- Donate gently used winter coats and boots to a local program that supports those who need them the most. Other items always needed are underwear, socks, small sticks of deodorant, small soaps, oral hygiene items and adult diapers.
- Adopt a family. Many organizations like the YMCA and the Salvation Army will match you with a family so that you can help them with gifts and food during the holidays.
- Offer a gift card to someone sleeping on the street. When you give a coffee shop gift card, you also give that person access to enter a business as a customer and have a chance to warm up and use the restroom.
- Visit the local animal shelter and offer to help bathe and walk the animals. Before you go, check and see if they need donated items like extra blankets.
- As the holiday season approaches, remember that Canada’s eastern provinces, which were hit hard by hurricane Fiona are still recovering from the destruction. You can help by donating to an organization
listed on www.canadahelps.org.
