There is no better time than the holiday season to teach your children the importance of giving back to the community. If you can make it a fun activity, that's even better. December is National Giving Month and the Sacramento/Placer County area has volunteering and giving opportunities that will not only warm the hearts of the recipients but will warm yours as well.
Most charities need cash donations, so that type of giving is always appreciated. But if you want to get the entire family involved, there are several ways that combine fun and giving. In fact, why not make this part of your annual holiday traditions?
Fill All Their Stockings
Kids of all ages enjoy Christmas stockings that are filled to the top with goodies. That's why Loaves & Fishes, combines a stocking drive with their distribution of holiday meals. This is a great opportunity for your kids to get involved. Stockings should be 14 to 16 inches long and 6 to 8 inches wide, and when filled, can be dropped off at the warehouse at 1351 North C Street. Each stocking should contain the following:
- A gift card for guest emergency services. Choose things like Subway, Target, Safeway, or McDonald's.
- One set of stretchy or knitted hats and gloves (so one size can fit many)
- Disposable razors
- Shoelaces
- Chapstick
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deck of cards
- Travel-size toiletries such as lotion, shampoo, or deodorant.
Your kids will enjoy shopping for the items and stuffing the stockings.
Toy Donations
Who better than your children to know the toys that other kids would like? There are several ways to donate in the area. The Sheriff's Toy Project combines several non-profits, businesses, and police officers to serve over 7,500 families during the holidays. They make it possible for families who may be struggling to receive bikes, computers, food boxes, clothes, and other gifts. Donate toys or other donations at your local Sheriff's office.
Toys for Tots is perhaps one of the most popular charity drives in the Sacramento area. They readily accept cash donations but your kids may find it more fun to shop for a child their own age. To make it even more fun, why not host a drop-off site where your kids' classmates, your neighbors, and others can drop off the toys for you to deliver?
Angel Trees, hosted by the Salvation Army can be set up at businesses all over the city. If you have one nearby, let each of your kids choose a child to buy for and then select the gift from the list.
Run For It!
There are plenty of sponsored runs and trots this time of year that funnel the proceeds to charities. One of our favorites is the Folsom Christmas Classic in Roseville, which not only has a 10K and a 5K but also has a Santa Fun Run for kids under 10. Families can don their Santa hats or reindeer antlers and run to benefit Keaton's Child Cancer Alliance.
Senior Helpers Offers Help for Your Family Member
Senior Helpers Sacramento/Placer County knows how busy the holidays are for most families. We can help by offering caregiving and companionship for your loved ones. We offer our services in Sacramento and Placer County, including Roseville, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Citrus Heights, Antelope, Rancho Cordova, McClellan, Elverta, Mather, North Highlands, Rio Linda, and Loomis. Contact us today if you need more information.