With the Winter season close by, it’s the perfect opportunity for giving back and spreading joy to others. It’s important to take time and help provide to the community around you and to people who are in need. So, here are several ways you can help give back this Christmas.
You can make a change by donating to charities and drives. Santa Barbara offers food banks like the Santa Barbara County Food Bank where you can sign up to help out. This season, they are hosting a Giving Tuesday campaign and this December, they are organizing a holiday food distribution event for struggling families. Our very own San Marcos High School offers a canned foods drive and also currently a blood drive hosted by the San Marcos High School HOSA club. The importance of donating blood is crucial and could be life-changing for someone. Blood drives support patient surgeries, illness, injuries, and cancer treatments. ASB president Dawson Kelly, 12th grade, said, “If you are 16 or older, you can donate to the SMHS blood drive Friday, December 2nd.”
Another way you can help assist this holiday season is by donating to low-income families and kids who are less fortunate. Toy donations can bring a huge smile to a kid’s face and helps develop more imagination and creativity. Usually thrift stores like Goodwill or just a local thrift store near you will take toy donations. You can also recycle toys or pass it on to a friend or a younger family member. A kind and generous alternative could also be baking delicious Christmas treats for anyone you know that might be struggling right now like a relative, friend, or neighbor. Or just simply just spending time with someone who needs some extra support this holiday season can make a huge and magical impact.
Volunteering to charities and spreading the word about these events can change someone’s life in seconds. With every act, you can give less fortunate people the chance to celebrate Christmas with traditions like Christmas trees, presents for the kids, a holiday dinner, and more.
