I think many of us are guilty of it at this time of the year – searching for the perfect gifts, racking our brains to come up with unique ideas, and splurging on items that we normally wouldn’t even consider purchasing at any other time of the year.
And while I admit that a big part of me loves finding those perfect gifts, especially for my kids and husband, another piece of me aches a little at the fact that we spend a lot of money and attention on ourselves at this time of the year.
But, the holiday season is also a great time to see the good in people, and it’s pretty easy to find a nice pick-me-up if we are willing to open our eyes. Random acts of kindness seem to be everywhere, and many of the same people who are working to find those perfect gifts, are also focused on supporting those in need.
There are so many organizations to support, and the options to help out and feel good at Christmas are unending.
Across the country, Canadians are expected to donate an amazing $5 billion dollars through the holiday season, and over 60 per cent of Canadians will donate to causes they deem worthy, according to statistics from Imagine Canada
While there are many large (and worthy) organizations out there to support, I personally enjoy keeping the bulk of my support and dollars close to home, where I can feel and see a difference in a special kind of way.
Right now we have the Santa’s Elves and the Knights of Columbus Christmas hampers program, along with the year-round efforts of the St. Paul Food Bank, and the continual efforts of the animal shelter all eagerly organizing themselves, hoping to draw in a few extra dollars or donations for their initiatives. And there are more worthy groups, no doubt.
Last year, along with donating to some of our local organizations, I also felt inspired to donate to the Bissell Centre in Edmonton, after that organization put out a call for winter gear. The opportunities to help really are endless.
While there are stories out there about how a large amount of donated funds don’t actually reach those in need when donating to large, international organizations, donating funds in a more local sense is much easier to gauge, and it only takes a little research, or a simple phone call, to feel confident in where your donations are going.
If you stop by as the Knights of Columbus organize their hampers, or as students at Regional High wrap donated gifts later this month, it’s clear that donations are reaching local bellies and children.
There are so many fun, unique, and worthy ways to give back during the holidays. Let us challenge one another to take one extra step, whether it is through a physical donation, or a donation of time and volunteer effort, to spread not only Christmas cheer, but also goodwill.
