This holiday season will feel quite different for all of us in light of the challenges and tragedies the world has faced this year. Which is why this year especially, it’s important to give back during the holidays to communities who need extra support, love, and care. I encourage all of those who are in the position to help to do so, whether it’s in the form of a monetary contribution, clothing donation, food donation, or volunteering. Below are some ideas on how to give back this holiday season, along with some national and local organizations doing important work.
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
NO KIDS HUNGRY – No Kids Hungry is a national campaign with a goal to end child hunger. With schools closed and many parents out of work, more children in our country may be facing hunger than ever before. Just a $10 donation can help feed 100 hungry kids.
FEEDING AMERICA – Feeding America is another national campaign with a mission to end the fight against hunger. Due to the pandemic, it’s estimated that 50 million people may face food insecurity this year. Help by donating food to your local food bank, making a monetary contribution, or volunteering.
SAVE THE CHILDREN – Save the Children is a global organization that has been advocating for children around the world for 100 years. Their vision is that every child should have the right to a safe and healthy life and access to education. Currently, Save the Children is working to protect children from the harmful effects of the ongoing pandemic. You can help protect the most vulnerable children from Covid-19 by making a monetary donation.
THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE – The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides support and tools to help survivors of domestic violence. Their hotline is available 24/7 every day of the year. With increased time at home due to the pandemic, there is a sustained increase in survivors needing support, resources, and safety planning. Support those experiencing relationship abuse by making a donation or signing up for The Hotline’s Action Center.
THE LOVELAND FOUNDATION – The Loveland Foundation brings opportunities, empowerment, and healing to communities of color, specifically Black women and girls. Donating to their campaign provides Black women and girls the opportunity to heal and the financial support for 4-8 therapy sessions.
EQUAL JUSTICE INITIATIVE – Equal Justice Initiative challenges the racial and economic injustice in America as they work to end mass incarceration and excessive punishment. Help protect basic humans rights by making a monetary contribution or by learning more on how to get involved.
THE TREVOR PROJECT – The Trevor Project is an organization that provides crisis intervention and 24 hour suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth. Help by donating so the organization can train more crisis counselors and continue to provide their services for free.
LETTERS AGAINST DEPRESSION – Spread hope and support by writing a letter to someone battling depression. During the pandemic, you can also help by donating letter related items, such as stamps and holiday cards.
THE HUMANE SOCIETY – The Humane Society has been working towards a more humane world for animals and humans alike. Besides donating this holiday season, you can support cruelty free cosmetics brands and shop humanely.
AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS – ASPCA is one of the largest humane societies in the world. They work to put a stop to animal cruelty by rescuing them from abuse and placing them in homes. Help them advocate for those without a voice by donating, adopting, or honor gifting.
LOCAL LOS ANGELES ORGANIZATIONS
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES WOMEN’S CENTER – The Downtown Women’s Center in Los Angeles focuses exclusively on supporting and empowering women experiencing homelessness through housing, wellness, and employment. Donating to the center will help them provide services and ensure a safe and healthy environment. Donate money, donate goods, or shop MADE by DWC.
LOS ANGELES HOUSE OF RUTH – LAHR provides services and shelter to survivors of domestic violence. In addition, LAHR empowers women and provides the necessary tools for individuals to build self sufficiency. Donate items such as grocery gift cards and non-perishable foods, or make a monetary donation.
LOS ANGELES MISSION – Los Angeles Mission works to eliminate homelessness and provide for those in need. There are more people becoming homeless now than anytime in our city’s history. Los Angeles Mission is on the front lines helping by providing meals, safe shelter, and other support. Make a monetary donation or donate food, clothing, and other essential goods.
BABY2BABY – Baby2Baby provides low income children with the basic necessities that every child deserves, such as clothing and diapers. You can help by making a monetary donation or donating items to aid families with needs impacted by the pandemic. In addition, you can sign up for the Family2Family program to gift families their most needed items for the holiday season.
These are just some of the amazing organizations out there doing good. If you have any organizations to share, feel free to leave them in the comments. I hope this post has inspired you to give back to your community this holiday season and beyond. Happy holidays!
