Ways to Give Back Locally This Holiday Season

As we approach the season of giving, now is the time to give back to our friends, neighbours and those in our community. Here are a few ways to donate and help out this holiday season.

Donate

Consider donating items you no longer need or want to local charities. Bring pet food, blankets and toys to local animal shelters. Donate gently used clothing, books and household items to local shelters and thrift stores, such as the Nanaimo Hospice Thrift Shoppe and the Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Store.

Shop Local

Support local and buy some holiday gifts at locally owned and operated stores and other small businesses. And if there are any charity craft and bake sales, consider picking up a holiday treat.

Send Holiday Cards

Brighten someone else’s day by sending out holiday cards to senior centres, shelters and hospitals.

Volunteer

Volunteer your time and effort for a good cause, whether that’s volunteering at a senior centre, local shelter, or food and toy donation drives.

Help Schools & Teachers

Consider giving back to local schools and teachers by seeing if your neighbourhood school has a wish list, or even getting in touch with a local teacher and going shopping for new school supplies, books and crafts to help struggling schools and students bring in a good new year.

Help Out A Neighbour

Know of a neighbour or someone in your community who could use a helping hand? Consider giving a senior a ride to a doctor’s appointment or shoveling a neighbour’s driveway during the snowy season. Any kind gesture can be a great help.

Charity Donations

Consider donating to an organization you want to support, such as BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Canadian Red Cross and the Salvation Army.