While the festive season is joyful for many, for some it is a difficult time of year full of reminders of loss and struggles. Therefore, the festive season is the perfect time of year to appreciate what you have, but more importantly, give back to those less fortunate than you are. We have listed simple ways you can give back to the community and support those in need this festive season.
1. Volunteer at a local food bank
The festive period is a busy period for all of us, including charitable organisations. If you are looking to support your local community, why not contact a local food bank?
You can check your local council’s website to find food banks or soup kitchens in your local area that might need your support this year. Some food banks also accept chocolate advent calendars so kids can get excited for the run-up to Christmas without parents having to worry about the cost.
Whether you can volunteer for 2 hours or 2 days, all support is valid. You can help prep, serve, pack supplies, and make deliveries. You can also support charities by offering telephone and email support over the holidays.
2. Support Local Business
Supporting local businesses is something we should be doing all year round, especially during the holidays.
The festive period is one of the biggest times in the year for businesses, and many of us default to large organisations and chains for our shopping.
But remember that local companies need support during the festive season too, and more often than not, you’ll find some incredible hidden gems – a fun life hack to remember all year round!
3. Christmas Donations
Donating is an excellent way to make a difference during the holidays. You can make a box full of Christmas goodies for children who wouldn’t ordinarily be getting presents, or you could fill it with everyday essentials that we often take for granted. Or why not do both?
Everything from clothing, bedding, food, and festive gifts can be donated, so why not see what local charities are requesting and see how you can make a difference?
4. Buy gifts that give back
You can donate to the less fortunate while shopping for your weekly food shop.
Purchasing simple products and leaving them at the donation boxes in your local supermarket is a simple and convenient gesture that goes a long way!
5. Throw a festive charity bake sale
Bake sales are a simple and classic idea that work every time. Grab your apron and whip up some quick treats to raise money.
Pop on a bake sale in your office. Or, why not buddy up with a friend and host your bake sale in a local community centre, popular supermarket, or a local farmers market? You could even speak with any local events taking place, such as Christmas fairs, to see if you can get your bake sale involved!
6. Christmas Jumper Day
Dust off that itchy Christmas jumper to support a good cause. Ask the whole office to get involved in a Christmas Jumper Day and donate the money raised to a charity in need.
Can’t wear a jumper? What about fun accessories like reindeer antlers? Get involved, however, you can!
7. Check in on a vulnerable friend or neighbour
As the nights get darker and the weather shifts, many begin to experience seasonal depression, so here are some ways to connect with loved ones in an accessible way:
- Pop around for a friendly chat or for a quick cuppa.
- If your loved ones live further away, a 15-minute Facetime can make all the difference.
- Play virtual games, like Heads Up, Charades, or interactive apps and games.
- Host a virtual hangout with your friends.
- Make dinner together over Facetime.
- Start a digital book club.
- Create a fitness group.
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