Helping Those In Need This Holiday Season

The coronavirus pandemic has caused countless difficulties in society: small businesses are going under, many families are stuck at home, and hospitals are reaching capacity. Trying circumstances have become the new normal. So this year, more than ever before, the holiday season is the perfect time to give back. Granted, it’s difficult to follow social distancing guidelines and participate in in-person volunteer opportunities but there are still several ways to help the community.

One popular way to do so is to simply donate. It can be anything from clothes to canned food to toys. As long the organization’s guidelines are followed, this is an easy way to support someone less fortunate in a risk free way. It may require slightly more work this year to sanitize donated items, but it is undoubtedly worth it to know that your contributions go directly to families who may be struggling.

Currently, there is no shortage of opportunities to volunteer from the safety of your own home. Find a place in your community that needs a hand and see if they are requesting anything in particular. Whether it be decorating bags for meal deliveries, sending holiday cards, or organizing virtual events, being involved can do so much.

It may be difficult to give time to organizations, and spare resources might be hard to come by, so there is one option that will always help. It costs nothing --- no money, time, or resources. All you have to do is spread the word. Sign petitions or post on social media. People underestimate the impact of this small act. By reminding people to wear masks or reposting articles, people will see, listen, and take action. Everything little action counts during these times.

Book Bears is all about spreading the importance of literature, so let’s talk books. Here is a list of places where you can donate literature:

• Local Libraries

• Goodwill

• Habitat for Humanity

• Kids Need to Read

• Reader to Reader

• African Library Project

• Books for Africa

• Books Through Bars

• Better World Books

Books may not seem like much, but picture a little girl who goes to a school that is struggling financially. Imagine her receiving a book during the holidays, seeing that someone cares to make a difference in her life. She now has a book that will create a whole new world of imagination and hope for her. Reading is often underestimated and overlooked. Many young people turn to movies or video games, but books are truly irreplaceable. They not only keep the mind sharp and help it grow, but also offer a whole new world to the reader. Reading absolutely essential for our youth and, during these times, it is a resource that can be a short, magical escape from reality. They can be inspiring on so many levels, and donating a book or two can help change someone’s life.

I encourage everyone to help their community as much as possible this holiday season. There are still countless ways to help out our society despite everything that is going on. There are still people out there who want to make a difference in the community and beyond. Whether you donate a book, shirt, or toy, send someone a Christmas card, organize an event, or whether you only take the time to consider how many people could use some hope, you can make an immeasurable difference.