Publisher's Note:
Before we get in to ways to give back, we just want to give acknowledgement of a few things. We realize that not everyone may be in a spot where they can give back a lot this year and that is okay, and you are definitely not alone. There are many great resources available to help out this holiday season.
If you find yourself in need of help making sure Santa knows what your family needs this year, USPS has a great operation going on. Have your child mail their letter to Operation Santa no later than December 10th for it to be posted on the USPS adoption page.
If you need it, the address to Santa’s residence is
123 Elf Road
North Pole, 88888
Someone will adopt your letter (please click here to sign up to read letters and adopt one!) *Please note there is no guarantee that the letter will be adopted, as this is all volunteer based, but the more awareness we raise, the more likely we'll have volunteers, so make sure to share!
If you find yourself in need of other assistance this season, again please know that you are not alone. Calling 211 is a great place to start to get the resources you need for this season of life. May everyone feel warmth and joy as we close out this year and start a new one!
Now, if you do find yourself in a great position to give this year, this is for you. I often find that the best way to celebrate Thanksgiving is by making thanks and providing gifts to those who need it most.
Here is a list of 5 ways to give back locally in the Charlotte, MI area this year.
Decorate for the holidays!
Do you love shopping for Christmas and holiday decorations and wish that adorable snowman you found could also support your community? Well, shop at Eaton Community Palliative Care Thrift Store this year for all of your decoration needs. The funds generated through purchases cover operating expenses for the agency. The Christmas Store is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm.
Purchase and Donate a Toy
Do you love to find a bargain? Shop until you drop? Maybe you can add an extra item to your list this year- a toy for a child who may not otherwise receive one. The Charlotte Fire Department will be “Stuffing the Bus” and collecting toys for their Christmas Kiddies on November 27th. You can also donate directly to the fire department.
Wrap Presents!
Maybe transforming the toy into a present is more your thing. Do you enjoy bright colored packages and tying up strings? Help the Charlotte Fire Department wrap presents this year! Find details here.
Donate items to a local Animal Rescue
Sometimes the holidays give us the urge to declutter and purge out some of our household items. Make sure not to toss those sheets and blankets into the garbage! Places like Willow Haven Animal Sanctuary use them. Christi is a local foster for the Sanctuary and is willing to pick up and drop off donations for you. She can be contacted on Facebook here to schedule a time. Other items needed are dog collars, leashes, toys, wire kennels and other pet items.
Grant a wish for a local homeless shelter
Looking to make a larger impact? SIREN is a local community organization that provides resources and support for those experiencing homelessness and survivors of domestic violence. They have a wish-list of items that are needed including feminine hygiene products, deodorant, winter boots, winter coats, phone cards, gift cards, umbrellas, dog/cat food and cases of bottled water. Items can be dropped off at 520 Robinson Street in Charlotte.
If you are an organization that would like to be included in this list, please contact me here. If you have an event you would like to add to our calendar, you can also email me or submit it here.
