As the Advent season progresses, Christians await the coming of Jesus Christ. Christmas and the winter season are often associated with family, joy and warmth, while Christmas songs, hot chocolate, and ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas marathon are some aspects that make the holidays especially enjoyable. However, this time of year can be difficult for those who are homeless, sick, and impoverished because the days are colder and the need for money hangs over their heads. Luckily, this season is the best time to go out and serve. Here are some ways you can help during the holiday season:
As we are in a Goal IV year, there is an SR Faith in Action Family Day at A Wider Circle on December 12 and 13. A Wider Circle is an organization that collects furniture to furnish the homes of families in need. On this family day, volunteers with collect and help organize the donations A Wider Circle receives, here is how you can get involved: http://awidercircle.org/get-involved/ .
Another place to serve is at our next door neighbor, NIH. The Children’s Inn at NIH is an nonprofit that houses families and children who are involved in the clinical trials. The holidays are a difficult time for both the parents and kids, and families often travel from far away to visit their child for Christmas. As a result, the Children’s Inn is really in need of presents this time of year. They have a Gingerbread Gift Shop so that families can give Christmas presents to their loved ones at no cost. So, a great way to help is to donate some presents and make cards for the kids. Here is their holiday wish list: http://childrensinn.org/get-innvolved/holiday-wish-list/ Transferring your holiday joy to the children and their families is a gift that cannot be replaced.
You can also give back to your community by donating to a charity of your choice. Lexi French, ’16 says, “Each holiday season my family and I choose a charity that is meaningful to us, and we donate money. It is a great way to keep the spirit of Advent alive during this hectic season.”
If you cannot think of a way to serve, why not pay a visit to your social action site? Places that provide food or clothing definitely could use the extra help this season. Just remember the holidays are about more than presents and sugary desserts; they are also about family, the birth of Jesus, and making an extra effort to help those in need.
Leave a Reply