Different ways to donate for the holidays
Giving Tuesday is November 29th, but between shopping, carpooling, and scheduling, we know you’ve got a lot on your plate (excuse the pun). To help you give back without overstretching, we’re sharing five stress-free ways to donate this season.
Here are 5 different ways your family can donate for the holidays:
1. Donate money.
Sometimes we just don’t have the energy to spare, and a monetary donation lets you do a lot of good without much effort. Don’t have a favorite charity? Try one of ours!
The Salvation Army (how can you resist the bell-ringers?!): Keep small bills and change handy so you can let your kiddos deposit the cash on your next outing.
The Nature Conservancy: Support nature conservation and make double the impact when you donate on Giving Tuesday. Now through Nov. 29th, your donations will be doubled! Plus a perk: donors get a free year of Nature Conservancy magazine.
Our Indy picks:
Foster Fairies: Assist local foster children by fulfilling family wish lists during the holidays. Give directly to help kids in your community and support their meaningful mission.
Coburn Place: Support survivors of domestic violence and their children by donating to this local housing service that ensures families find safety in troubling times.
2. Donate food.
When shopping for holiday meals, grab a few extra seasonal favorites and bring them to your local food pantry. Local families can enjoy holiday staples thanks to your generosity! You can also clean out your pantry and ensure food pantry shelves are stocked for those in need.
Some ideas for shelf-stable holiday faves include:
Instant potatoes
Jars of gravy
Boxed stuffing mix
Chicken broth
Canned fruits and veggies
Baking mixes
Our Indy pick:
Gleaner’s: Indiana’s largest food pantry supports families in preventing hunger during the holidays. Visit their website to search for ways to serve through their volunteer opportunities.
CityMom Jessica R. and her kiddos (Whittaker & Sheldon) deliver meals on Thanksgiving morning!
3. Donate time.
Whether you take an hour to check on a lonely neighbor or volunteer for a holiday event at your kids’ school, giving others a little extra time (if you have it!) is essential during this busy season. Check out our list of ways to give back as a family and include little ones in your plans.
Our Indy pick:
Wheeler Mission: At the center for women and children, they are requesting donations of pre-made sack lunches due to the increased volume of moms and kiddos staying with them this season. Follow this link to get the details and plan a prep day with your family asap! For all their upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit here.
4. Donate clothes or toys.
The holidays present the perfect time to clean out closets and toy rooms to make way for the influx of gifts. Many churches and community organizations request clothing donations during the holidays, especially coats, hats, and gloves, to conquer the cold. You can also take items to secondhand shops to make sure families in need can shop affordably this winter.
Consider spots like:
Goodwill
The Salvation Army
Your local secondhand store
Don’t have extras lying around? While you’re doing your own shopping, pick up a few new toys to gift to Toys for Tots.
ANOTHER WAY TO DONATE: Learn about Milk Banks that need your stash of liquid gold.
Our Indy picks:
Hope for the Holidays: Make a kiddo’s holiday wishes come true by sponsoring a child or family and donating items from their unique wish list. Sign up to connect with a wish list today.
Julian Center: The Julian Center supports families impacted by domestic and sexual violence. They keep an up-to-date wish list online so you can see what items are currently needed. Take things to their Thrifty Threads Store at 1501 W. 86th Street, open Monday – Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm.
CityMom Kristina O. and her family collect books for donation to a school and a prison.
5. Pay it forward.
Giving is receiving! Use your imagination and find some ways to brighten someone’s day. The possibilities are endless!
Here are a few of our CityMom’s suggestions:
Make a stranger smile by paying for the order behind you at your go-to coffee shop or on your next grocery visit.
Invite friends or neighbors who live far from family or have complex family dynamics to join you for holiday dinners.
Spend the day making baked goods with your kiddos so you can share your treats with friends, neighbors, or coworkers.
Make sure you tag us on Giving Tuesday (November 29) and throughout the holidays so we can see how your family is celebrating this #seasonofgiving!
For families in need: We understand this is a difficult time of year for some families. Whether you are experiencing emotional or financial hardships, we want you to feel supported too! Reach out to theCityMoms if you need extra assistance locating resources this season.
