How to Beat the Holiday Blues

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There are some people who will not be with their family and friends this holiday season. For those people, the holidays bring blues rather than boughs of holly. This year, instead of spending the holiday season in solitude, there are many outlets to help make the season bright.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Computer with Internet access
Transportation

Step1

Many nonprofit, community organizations and charities have special holiday programs designed to give to those less fortunate. Go to your local chamber of commerce’ s website and local newspapers for listings of these organizations. Many organizations, such as Hosea Feed the Hungry, in Atlanta, Georgia, (http://www.hoseafeedthehungry.com/)have special programs and events on Christmas day, where volunteers can serve food to the homeless.

Step2

The U.S. Marines sponsors a “Toys for Tots” program where volunteers can purchase toys for children who would not otherwise receive toys for Christmas. Visit www.toysfortots.org to find a drop location in your community. Also, your local library may have a Salvation Army’s “Angel tree”, a Christmas tree decorated with numbered tags that list a child’s age, gender and often gift wish. Patrons can select an ornament from the tree and purchase a toy for a particular child. Frequently, these Angel trees have been appearing in malls, supermarkets, and even banks. Participation in these events will soothe anyone longing to give gifts to children on Christmas. For more information on the Angel Tree, visit www.salvationarmyusa.org.

Step3

Visit a local senior assisted living facility. There are many seniors at these facilities that would enjoy an afternoon visit. While visiting, the senior may even share some of their holiday memories and traditions.

Step4

Lastly, for those of you who love holiday decorations, but do not want to decorate alone, you should visit the local children’s hospital and help the children make ornaments and holiday cards.

Tips & Warnings

Although you cannot be around family and friends during this holiday season, giving tidings of joy back to the community around you is a true method getting rid of the holiday blues by spreading holiday cheer.