For many people, the holiday season is a time to look beyond your own needs and desires and help others who may be struggling.
The holidays are a time of reflection, where we truly appreciate what we have and acknowledge that others might not be as fortunate. Giving back is a powerful way to express gratitude and bless others who are less fortunate. Giving helps to spread joy and hope during the holiday season.
Locally, there are a multitude of ways that you can give and help during the holiday season.
If you desire to make financial contributions this season, there are many charities and organizations that would welcome those donations. For the Salvation Army, their Red Kettle Campaign, held each Christmas season, is their largest annual fundraising event. Bell ringers are stationed in front of many shopping venues through Christmas Eve, collecting funds for this vital nonprofit organization. You can help by placing cash in one of the red kettles. If you are short on cash, scan the QR code, located at each collection site and make an online holiday donation.
Food insecurity is always an issue in the Ozarks, but the need is greater during the holiday season and the winter months. Locally, Christian Action Ministries and the Salvation Army operate food pantries and appreciate donations of non-perishable food items or cash to purchase food for our neighbors in need. If you prefer to give directly, why not place food items in one of the many Blessings Boxes located throughout the community. They can be found at Real Life Church in Hollister, Riley's Treasures in downtown Branson, Christian Action Ministries on Highway 165, Flowers by the Stemmery in Hollister and City Hall in Forsyth. The Blessings Boxes are available to all, and can be filled with non-perishable food items and hygiene that greatly help those in need.
There are many families that struggle to provide Christmas gifts for their children, and a number of area businesses and organizations hold toy drives during this time of year. A fun way to give back during the holidays is by purchasing new toys to place in a collection box to put a smile on a child's face on Christmas morning. Throughout town you will find collection boxes for Toys for Tots and other organizations. As in years past, the Branson Globe is collecting toys for children in need. Drop-off points are at The Flagstore in downtown Branson, Motel 6 on Main Street, the Toy Museum/Beck Museums on West 76 Country Boulevard, and the Branson Globe office on Business 65 in Hollister. Organizations such as House of Hope also accept donations of new toys to help with holiday programs they provide for families in the community.
Organizations that help animals can also use support during the holiday season. The Taney County Animal Control is looking for donations of treats, toys, collars, leashes, thick blankets and much more. The Humane Society can also benefit from these items, as well as food for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. Why not pick up a bag or can of pet food while you are doing your holiday shopping, to donate to a local agency.
Area nursing homes try to make the holidays brighter for their elderly residents. They are seeking donations of fuzzy socks, snacks, sweat pants, sweat shirts, slippers, toiletries, nail polish and more, to be used as holiday gifts. Donations for the nursing homes can be dropped off at facilities, where they will be greatly appreciated.
Many area organizations can benefit from donations of items you have at home. Good used clothing, used toys, working household items, decor and other items can be donated to organizations such as Riley's Treasures, the United Methodist Church, the Humane Society, the Forsyth Library, and many others, to be sold in their thrift stores that are used help fund those nonprofits.
Often, giving of yourself and your time is the best way to help another person or organization during the holidays. Volunteer as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army, or to help with House of Hope's Chimneys of Hope program. You might choose to volunteer with Elevate Branson, who helps many in our community, not just during the holidays, but all year long.
Why not volunteer to babysit for a friend so they can finish up last-minute holiday chores or to help your neighbor rake leaves or shovel their drive? You might help someone you know clean their house, or spend an evening helping them wrap presents for their children.
There are countless ways to give back during the holiday season. And, by doing so, you will reap many benefits, including a boost in your mood, happiness and satisfaction, as well as a feeling of pride and accomplishment. When you find a way to help someone this holiday season, you will make the holidays brighter for them, and for yourself!
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