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This is the perfect time to spread a little Christmas cheer and give back to those in need. This is also a time when it is easier than ever to lend a helping hand. Whether that be in a soup kitchen, donating, or participating in programs to help those in need.

If you want to give back to your community this holiday season, here are a few ways that you can do it.

1. Donate Food

If you want to give back to your community this holiday season, you should start by donating food. This is the perfect thing to do during this time of the year.

There are likely several places around your local community that hold food drives where you can go and donate non-perishable food items for those in need. Some public places that hold these kinds of drives are homeless shelters, hospitals, and libraries.

It is best to donate food items that are clearly labeled and will not go bad anytime soon, such as dried pasta, canned goods, rice, beans, and other packaged items.

These will all be very useful and will be distributed to shelters and families in need during the holidays.

2. Volunteer at Soup Kitchens

One of the best ways that you can give back to your community is to volunteer your time. Time is precious and is the kindest thing that you can give away during this busy time of the year.

This is also a great time to teach your children about volunteering and the beauty of giving back to the community.

Many homeless shelters, public spaces, and soup kitchens are looking for volunteers to help feed the homeless or entertain children and the elderly. These kinds of events will often be included in your local newspaper or online.

3. Give Food Baskets to Neighbors

Another way that you can lend a hand in the community around you is to give out food baskets to your neighbors.

You never know who might be in need this time of year, so this can be a very helpful and kind-hearted gesture. This is also a good way to show some holiday spirit and to connect with the people around you.

Some great ways to fill your food basket are with homemade baked goods and Christmas candy. You could also include some homemade delicacies like jams, pickles, and assorted nuts.

Anything would be appreciated if just for the effort that went into giving the gift. This is a beautiful way to meet your neighbors face to face and start a new holiday tradition in the neighborhood.

4. Sponsor a Child

This time of the year is the perfect time to get involved in helping children who are disadvantaged. This often involves getting a Christmas wishlist from a child and then sending them some items on their list.

Many stores are involved in some kind of program meant to sponsor a child or a family. Many public businesses will have these kinds of sponsored opportunities. Places like grocery stores and libraries will also have them available to the public.

This is a great way to brighten a child’s Christmas when their family may not be able to afford to buy them gifts.

5. Give to the Homeless

Giving to the homeless in your community is always a great idea, no matter the time of year. But this is especially important during the holidays and the colder seasons.

Depending on where you live and the climate there, many homeless people greatly suffer during the holidays. Not just because they are often alone, but also because the elements can be particularly harsh during this time of the season.

There are all kinds of ways that you can help the homeless in your community. One of the ways is to help them know what shelters and soup kitchens are open as well as helping them to get there.

You can also isgive out gift cards to fast food places where they can get a hot meal. You can purchase a few dozen gift cards to hand out as you see the need throughout the holiday season.

Care packages are another great way to help the homeless this season. These can be so handy and really put a little extra love into the gift. Try to be realistic when creating them though, and only add useful items such as toothbrushes, deodorants, wet wipes, gloves, socks, scarfs, and non-perishable food items.

These will help the homeless in your area to get through winter feeling more comfortable. It is also a great way to give a gift to someone who is most likely all alone this holiday season.

6. Donate to Public Places

One way that you can give back to your community is to donate to public spaces where many people work.

This could mean donating a large order of food, coffee, or donuts.

Places like offices, libraries, hospitals, police stations, and firehouses are great places to consider. Any food or drink donations are sure to be appreciated and enjoyed by those who work there.

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