The holidays are almost upon us! For many this means secret santa exchanges, presents under the christmas tree, putting up festive lights, and socially distant get-togethers with family. For others, the holidays are a time of struggle and worry for unfortunate families that do not know how they will be putting food on the dinner table this year. Many kids will go without presents this year and feel left out from all of the festive fun. A great way to spread holiday cheer throughout your community is by helping those in need. Not only will you feel better about yourself, but also be able to bring a smile to someone’s face. Lets spread some holiday cheer this year before 2020 comes to a close! Here are different ways to give during the holidays.
Toys for Tots
What is better than bringing a smile to a child’s face? Toys for Tots is an organization run by the United States Marine Corps that distributes gifts to children whose parents cannot afford to buy presents during the holidays. There are a few ways you can give to this organization.
- Create a virtual toy box
Do you not have enough time to go out and buy a toy? Well Toys for Tots has created an easy way for you to buy presents without leaving the comfort of your own home! Simply go to the Toys for Tot website and press the link Toys for Tots Virtual Toy Box. From there you have hundreds of toys to choose from. When you are done adding toys to your box, simply check out and donate the gifts you purchased.
- Donating a toy to your local Toys for Tots drop box
Toys for Tots drop boxes are located in hundreds of cities across the country. If you have the time, go out and buy a gift to donate! To find a Toys for Tots drop off box near you, click here and fill in what state and county you reside in. From there you can click on “ways to donate local” and find every Toys for Tots drop box location close to you.
- Donate directly to the Marine Toys for Tots website
If you do not consider yourself a good gift-giver then maybe sending money donations is more suited for you! You can give as much as your heart desires without having to put in the work of looking for toys. If you feel that this option is best for you, click here to give today!
Operation Christmas Child
Operation Christmas Child is an organization started by the Samaritan’s Purse. The goal of this project is to donate shoe boxes filled with toys, hygiene items, school supplies and more to be sent out to children all over the world. You can build a shoe box online as well as donate shoe boxes filled with gifts (click here for locations). For more information on how to give to children around the world through this organization go to the Samaritan’s Purse website.
Adopt-a-Family
Many families struggle during the holidays to put food on the table. The adopt-a-family process will allow for you to give in every possible way. From buying gifts for young children to providing a meal to families on Christmas, this form of giving is sure to spread the holiday spirit. There are a few ways to adopt-a-family this year. First, you can donate to Volunteers of America and help families across Delaware Valley. If you want to donate to families in your area, many churches provide opportunities to adopt-a-family and give this holiday season.
Need more help towards reaching your goals and becoming your best self? Don’t worry. Give us a call and follow our Facebook page. We’ll make an appointment to talk via Zoom or by phone. Together, we’ll find a way to make your day a little healthier and happier.
Call 301-869-1787 or click here to set up an appointment as my free gift to you.
Source:
Lachance L, Ramsey D. Food, mood, and brain health: implications for the modern clinician. Mo Med. 2015;112(2):111-115.
To your Joy and Health,
Kay Loughrey, MPH, RDN, LDN
This blog post was written by Bailee Richman, Dietetics Student from the University of Maryland