Happy Giving Tuesday, friends. Today’s post is going to be a bit different from the norm. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, without taking some time to really reflect on what’s happening in our world. And the truth is, there is a lot of suffering that has gone on this year.
So now that we have all had the chance to shop Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, let’s take the time to give back. Those who have been affected by the pandemic could use some extra help to get through the holidays.
Giving Tuesday, or #GivingTuesday, takes place the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, and it gives us all a chance to help out how we can. I hope you will consider supporting the many families throughout the nation who are facing difficult times this holiday season. You don’t have to give a lot, but know that every little bit helps. Find a charity or organization that resonates the most with you. I’m highlighting a couple of the charities my husband and I have supported over the years, and if some of these inspire you to give, then great. If not, there are so many charities out there that could use your support.
National Charities
- No Kid Hungry: many kids rely on school lunches, and with remote learning, there are many children who are in need of a hot meal. $1 to this organization provides 10 healthy meals to a child in need.
- Soles 4 Souls: this is one that Aaron and I try to donate to every year. We go through and donate some lightly used or shoes. I now we all have some of those lying around. You send a box full of your shoes, and Zappos will donate your items to those in need. They give you a label and everything – just visit the link above.
- Guide Dogs for the Blind: This one is near and dear to my heart. I used to be a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind, which is a story I’ll have to share one day. This is an organization that plays a critical role for those who are visually impaired. All of the services they provide, including training the dogs – and their humans – are free of charge. They operate solely on gifts from generous donors and volunteers. They do not receive government support. And, for Giving Tuesday, your gift is doubled.
Houston Charities
- Houston Food Bank: The Houston Food Bank is one of the nation’s largest. They have been hit incredibly hard by the pandemic due to the sheer amount of people and families in need. $1 provides three meals. This is a tangible way to put your dollars to work.
- Houston Children’s Charity: this local (to me) non-profit is dedicated to providing help for underprivileged, abused and disabled children. They provide anything from clothes and mattresses to special vehicles equipped to handle wheelchairs. They do some important work in this community. You can donate to provide help for a specific cause within the charity, or you can make a general donation.
- Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center: Houston is home to the largest medical center in the world, which means that they go through a significant amount of blood. Throughout COVID, there have been shortages. I get emails almost on a weekly basis. And, if you have recovered from COVID-19, you can donate your plasma, which will go to help those currently fighting the virus.
- Agape Ministry: This organization prepares our neighbors to become Christ-following, independent, community leaders. They are a big force of community development in Houston, and Aaron and I have supported this organization from time to time. I have heard the stories first-hand from those who have received a little bit of help from Agape.
Shop to Give Back
And, there are even ways to give back by shopping for Christmas gifts.
- Kendra Scott is a local favorite of mine. I’ve been a fan since she opened her flagship store in Austin – and even more now that she gives generously to many organizations here in Houston. You can shop to give back through Kendra Scott’s “Shop for Good” program. Here is the link, and each item shows the organization that it will support.
Maybe this is all new to you. Maybe you aren’t in the position to give financially, and that’s okay. Giving of your time – and even your talent – can be just as important. Many of the organizations I’ve listed above share ways you can volunteer, or they list other ways you might be able to help. Thanks for staying with me for a different kind of post today!
