’Tis the season for giving! There are so many ways you and your family can connect during the holidays. Your family probably has specific traditions during this time of year, whether it’s cutting down your own Christmas tree or hosting a Christmas Eve movie marathon. If you’re looking for a new tradition, what could be better than spreading holiday cheer and helping your community? We’ve listed a few of our favorite ways to give back as a family this holiday season—don’t miss out!
Bake Cookies for Local Police and Fire Departments
Don’t forget about the people who keep you safe during the holiday madness. If you’re already planning on baking as a family, make a bigger batch and bring some cookies to your local fire and police departments. As a family, go to the stations and pass out cookies—it’s well worth the mess in the kitchen, and it’s a great way to get your younger children involved as well.
Support Veterans and Active Members
It’s important to show your support for people who are currently serving our country, especially during the holidays. Donate money or clothing to charities that provide support to veterans and their families nationwide, such as Purple Heart. You could also write holiday cards and send those off to active-duty members.
Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen or Shelter
Volunteering is another fantastic way to give back to the community all year round. During the holiday season, however, local shelters and soup kitchens are in even more need of volunteers. Bring your family and immerse yourself in not only helping others, but also making connections with the people who need help most.
Pack Stockings or Care Packages
Head out to the store, pick up some cheap stockings, and have the kids pick up both practical and fun items. Think about getting granola bars, bags of pretzels, water bottles, toothpaste, Pedialyte packets, warm gloves, and more. Once you get home, fill those stockings up and keep them in your car for when you encounter any homeless individuals.
Organize a Drive
Food drives, clothing drives, bake sales—all are wonderful options for raising money or gathering items to benefit people in your community. Talk to your children’s schools and see if you could set something up. You could also set one up in your neighborhood. Either way, it’s awesome for the kids to be present for these sorts of events—it will help them carry on the same behavior as they get older.
Adopt a Family
Many local and national organizations can help you sponsor a family in your area. You get a family and their wish lists, and then it’s up to you to make those wishes come true. This activity is great for kids, as they can make sweet cards and help with wrapping. These programs can help you and your family get closer and bring pure joy to the family you help.
Visit a Nursing Home
Nursing homes can end up being quite lonely during the holidays. Call ahead to a home in the area and ask if they allow visitors. It’s a wonderful time for kids to interact with elders, and it will bring great pleasure to all parties involved. If you have a pet, you can also see if they allow furry visitors. This is something you should try to build into your family’s schedule no matter what time of year it is.
