NHR- Ways to volunteer for the holidays?

[PaintWalker]

Hubby came home yesterday and said he saw a woman standing on a corner wearing a garbage bag for a coat with a sign that said.. willing to cook, clean, anything for money. It really saddened him. I was talking with our son yesterday afternoon and he had mentioned how bad Christmas was going to be for so many families this year due to the economy. I told then both, I think it would be good for them if we were to do something to help some of those families. Maybe work at a soup kitchen or deliver food to families in need. I am posting this asking all of you, what are some other ideas we could do as a family? I don't want to just give donations. I want my kids and hubby to do this hands on and see the people they are helping so they can feel it in their hearts and souls.. Any suggestions?


Thanks!

[spirit]

My family contacts either the FIA or Salvation Army and adopt a family for Christmas. We try to supply their needs not only for the Christmas dinner, but to give extra food. Then we try to find out what the children want or need. Toys, coats, boots, clothes. I make up an activity box for bad weather days with colored pencils, crayons, paper, color books, flash cards, stickers, rulers, pens, markers puzzles, play dough, finger paints, paints, card games. This gives mom something to entertain the group with. You can check with your local Community Service agency, Helping Hands, Senior Center, Meals On Wheels. They can all give you ideas on how to help, even the local school may know of families in need.

There are a lot of things we all can do to make a difference in someones life and it really doesn't take all that much effort, time or money. I do crafts, knit, sew, I will try anything, I make slippers, scarves, afghans, lap robes, what ever is needed. I made myself a poncho and I had 3 people asking me where I got it. (2 yards of material and a needle and thread).
Bev

[PaintWalker]

Thanks for the ideas Bev!!

[stolzml]

talk to the social worker in your school district, a lot of districts have a list of families in need... simple things like laundry soap, shampoo, and paper products are easy to collect and really a big help. Mott college used to run a program called "fluff & stuff", no food items, all paper products, cleaning products, hats, gloves, socks - it was a huge hit. maybe you could get something similar going in your town thru a community center or the schools.

[40angst]

Visit the elderly in a nursing home. Some of them have no family and it has to be hard for them during Christmas.

Volunteer at a pet shelter.

Donate your unused winter clothing to a homeless shelter.


Laura