Just like When You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Thanksgiving time should naturally flow into the spirit of giving during the holidays. When you count the things you are thankful for, you are going to want to give to others. Many people in our own community don't have the basics, or struggle to keep anything beyond the basics for themselves and their families. If you're like me, you can get stuck like a reindeer in the headlights, feeling overwhelmed and not knowing what or how or where to give.
The truth is, some people would just like someone to be kind to them. Or even just to notice them.
Thanksgiving is a time for thankfulness, and it is such a vital focus in our culture as we are simultaneously revving up for Christmas by browsing catalogs and Black Friday deals.
Here are ways you can give back to others in Hendricks County this holiday season (and all year-long!).
- Donate brand new or gently used clothing. The Macaroni Kid Clothing Donation Guide is a great place to start.
- Buy Christmas presents for a family in need. Check a local church, your kids' school's office, Family Promise, or Project A.N.G.E.L. to sponsor a kid or family this Christmas.
- Donate food or your time at a Hendricks County Food Pantry.
- Donate in a box. Leave food or personal care items in a Brownsburg Blessing Box. Or books in a Little Free Library Box.
- Give financially to a local nonprofit that takes care of community needs all year round. Check the Hendricks County Community Foundation website for a list of nonprofits in our county. Giving Tuesday is December 3rd.
- Visit or contact churches to see how you can get involved in local mission or community outreach. Churches can provide easy opportunities to help people in the community through work days, regular volunteer groups, and various donations.
- Simply smile and talk to people who might not normally be seen or noticed: cashiers, restaurant servers, frazzled-looking moms, and your neighbors. Be kind!
Did we miss an important way to give back to Hendricks County? If so, email us at: kristah@macaronikid.com.
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