The holidays are all about connection.
Checking in on your neighbors, showing up for local causes, and making sure more families feel seen and supported all help to bring more holiday magic! If you’re looking for ways to give back, here are just a few organizations you can support to bring a little extra cheer this season.
Toys for Tots
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation delivers new, unwrapped toys to children in need during the holidays. Over the past year, they’ve distributed 19 million toys to 7.3 million less fortunate children, covering over 800 communities across all 50 states – including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
How to help:
- Donate a new, unwrapped toy at an official collection site.
- Volunteer at your local campaign (sorting, packing, logistics).
- Give online to support toy purchases for communities with unmet needs.
Feeding America
As the largest hunger-relief network in the United States, Feeding America connects donors, retailers, farmers, and food banks to bring nutritious food where it’s needed most. In fact, they distributed more than 5.3 billion meals in 2023!
How to help:
- Ask your employer about donation matching to multiply your impact.
- Give time at a local food bank or pantry (sorting, packing, distribution).
- Donate funds: Food banks can stretch dollars to source exactly what’s needed.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is a global nonprofit that fights to end poverty through safe and affordable housing. They operate across all 50 states and in approximately 70 countries, working towards a future where everyone has a decent place to live.
How to help:
- Make a financial gift to fund materials and future builds.
- Volunteer on a build (no experience needed since they train on-site).
- Support your local ReStore by donating appliances, furniture, or home goods.
American Red Cross
In the wake of hardships and major disasters, the American Red Cross helps families with emergency shelter, health services, and recovery support. The Red Cross also supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood – a critical lifeline for hospitals all year-round.
How to help:
- Volunteer for disaster response or community preparedness training.
- Donate blood if you’re eligible (appointments are available most days).
- Give financially to ensure the Red Cross can mobilize quickly when crises strike.
Make a Difference Today
These are just a few of the many organizations working tirelessly to improve people’s lives each and every day. If you’re interested in being a force for change this holiday season, it’s a great idea to give where you can. Whether you donate funds, give blood, or spend an afternoon volunteering, your time and generosity can make a real difference.
Stay safe and happy holidays!
– Your friends at Renewal by Andersen ❄️