Ways to Give Back During the Holidays
The holidays are here and while it is natural to plan to buy gifts for friends and family, giving back to those in need can be added to your list too. As if giving back was not important before, living in a pandemic world means there are many more people right now who are struggling to make ends meet. I will share ways you can give back that will not break the bank.
Help Deliver Meals/Products:
Our elderly population are at most risk of developing complications from COVID-19. Contact Meals on Wheels America at mealsonwheelsamerica.org to assist with care and distribution of goods that are needed. Additionally, a lot of the homeless population have been displaced and are at high risk of contracting COVID-19. The homeless population struggle to find safe shelter and lack nutritious meals. In California, 4,354,400 people are food insecure. Donate or start a food drive through Move for Hunger at moveforhunger.com. If you would like a more grassroots approach, consider dropping off water bottles, snacks, first aid kits, and blankets to homeless communities in your area.
Donate Blood:
Often we wait to donate blood when there is an emergency need of some sort. The truth is blood donations have decreased tremendously and one way you can give back is by donating your blood to those who need it. Contact the American Red Cross to find out more information at redcrossblood.org The American Red Cross tests all blood, platelets, and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Those who test positive for COVID-19 antibodies can help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent blood transfusions.
Write Letters to Essential Workers, Elderly, and Hospital Patients:
The holiday season is a stressful time of year. Pair that with a global health pandemic and it can get pretty messy. Essential workers like your local grocery store checker or a nurse at your local clinic are working day in and day out to make sure their customers/patients needs are met. Those who are fortunate enough to work from home do not quite understand the anxiety that comes with being on the frontlines. Take some time to hand write a “thank you” card or letter and drop it off at the local store or clinic. Additionally, the elderly population are restricted when it comes to visitations and mingling inside nursing homes. Think about writing kind notes to the elderly and mail/drop it off outside a nursing home nearby. Lastly, those who are hospitalized either from COVID-19 or any other medical condition are often isolated, alone, and scared. Consider writing a “get well,” card with well wishes to hospital patients and mail it to a local hospital.
Check in on your Neighbors, Friends, and Family:
This is an easy and free way to give back during the holidays. Maybe you have a sick neighbor or elderly grandparent. Consider baking a dish and dropping it off at your neighbor’s front door. If you cannot see an elderly grandparent, friend, or family member in need, you can FaceTime or call to connect and show that you care. Many people are feeling lonely and confused right now. Sharing a conversation together and letting your friend or family member know that you are there to talk or to share a quick “hello” can make a difference in their day and your day too.
These are just a few ways you can give back this season. While it may be easy to get caught up on your next online purchase for your loved one, remember to give back to those in need too. Enjoy the holiday season. Sending lots of holiday cheer your way.
