1) Samaritan's Purse: Operation Christmas Child
Through Operation Christmas Child you pack a shoebox full of toys and other items that will be sent overseas to a child in need. The deadline to make a box and drop it off in person ended Nov. 21, but you can still donate $35 dollars online and pick out the items for the shoebox to be sent, along with a picture of you and a personalized message. I know many of us don't have tons of extra money lying around, so another option is to "adopt a box" for $7. This pays to ship boxes overseas that didn't come with a donation for shipping.
To visit the website click here.
2) Salvation Army
The Salvation Army has quite a few ways to help out during the holidays: Angel Tree Program, Toy Drives, Silver Bells Program, Fill-A-Stocking, and the Kettle program. December 9 is the LAST day to adopt an angel and send presents to your angel. So not a ton of time left but you can adopt an angel online! Also there is a Sock Drive going on through facebook. By clicking the "like" button, Hanes will donate a pair of socks to the Salvation Army for those in need. So there's really no excuse not to do that!
Also since I haven't really signed up to ring the bell since high school, I now have an online kettle! I don't have a very high goal because I know we don't have tons of extra money but if you would like to donate some money...even $1 it would be much appreciated! Click here. Please keep in mind how nice I have been to all of you this year.
To visit the website click here.
3) United Family Services
United Family Services hosts a Jingle Bell Bash which raises money for The Battered Women's Shelter. A ticket for an individual is $65 and for two tickets it's $115. There will be an open bar for an hour, food, music, dancing and an auction! It's Saturday, December 10 at the Wells Fargo Atrium. For more information click here.
4) A Child's Place
A Child's Place in Charlotte, NC has a program called Holiday Sponsorship. This is a good volunteer opportunity for a group or if you are willing to put down some major dough. Basically you sponsor a family and provide an item of clothing for each member of the family, a grocery store gift card for a holiday dinner, and an item off each family member's wish list. Click here for more information.
Hope this inspires everyone to give this holiday season! Remember there are a lot of people less fortunate than us that rely on our help during the holidays!! Also remember to donate to my kettle- seriously even $1 helps!!
