We’re always reminding ourselves to stop, take a break and count our blessings. The holidays aren’t only a good time to give thanks for your blessings. It’s also the perfect opportunity to be a blessing to someone else. What better way to help spread holiday cheer than by putting food on a neighbor’s table, presents under a struggling family’s tree or providing basic necessities to children across the world. Giving doesn’t involve a lot of time or money. But the entire family can participate in the following activities:
1. Pack a shoebox
More than 157 million shoeboxes filled with toys and basic necessities, like soap and toothbrushes, have been delivered to children in 160 countries through Operation Christmas Child. You may have even participated in this project as a child. It’s easy- pack a shoebox (or plastic bin) for a boy or girl between 2- 4 years old, 5- 9 years old or 10- 14 years old. In each box, include a “wow” toy (like a soccer ball and pump, doll, tea set, teddy bear, etc.), school supplies and hygiene products. No liquids, food or toy weapons allowed. Purchase a $9 shipping label for each box then drop off the box between November 12- 19 at a designated location. In a few weeks, you’ll be able to track where your package was sent. If you include a note and address, you may receive a letter back. Easy step by step instructions are available here.
2. Stock a food pantry
Most holiday gatherings involve large, festive meals. But just putting a little food on the table is a struggle for many families. An estimated 40 million Americans, 12 million of whom are children, don’t have constant access to food. Let your children pick up a few canned food or other non-perishable food items at the grocery store. We’ve made a habit of doubling every non-perishable item that we purchase on our weekly grocery store trip. I pick out what we need. They pick out what we donate to a local food pantry. Many churches and Christian missions operate food pantries and will happily accept your donations. Some may even let your children come in and stock donations.
3. Donate new toys
Every child deserves a little Christmas. More than 251 million children have received toys through the Toys for Tots program. I’ve even met several Marines who say they were recipients as children. Many local drives have already kicked off. Only new, unused toys in original packing are accepted. That does include stuffed animals and bikes. Balls are good gifts for boys and girls. Please also remember older girls. Donation drives often don’t yield as many gifts for girls 10 years old and older. A good rule of thumb is to shop for children the same age and sex as your children or grandchildren. Monetary donations are also accepted online. Find your drop off location and more information about your local drive on the Toys for Tots website.
4. Collect loose change
When I think of holiday shopping, I hear bells. The Salvation Army and their team of bell ringers will soon be stationed at the entrance to many stores in rain, sleet, wind and snow. Children love throwing change into a bin, watching it fall and listening to it clink. Let them collect extra change around the house. Encourage them to put aside some birthday money. Give them some chores to earn money or set up a lemonade stand. Keep the change handy and let them deposit it into the Salvation Army kettle whenever you head to the store.
5. Make cards
This is perhaps the easiest opportunity for young children to make a difference. All they need is paper, crayons and a little imagination. The options of who or where to send the cards is seemingly limitless- natural disaster survivors, patients at a children’s hospital, nursing home residents, first responders, etc..
A gift is more than what lies beneath the wrapping. The seemingly simple gesture of giving also provides people with hope. Start a new holiday tradition of giving as a family.
