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Step 1
MissionGo down to the local mission or soup kitchen and volunteer. You can help cook, clean, serve - or even just spread the holiday spirit by pulling up a chair and talking to the homeless like they're human, like their life really matters. Who knows, you might even make friends!
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Step 2
Nursing HomeVisit the nursing home. Many of the people living there (and not all of them are elderly) don't have family close enough to visit them and they may not have any living relatives at all. Adopt a grandparent or two, or take up with one of the younger residents who probably ended up there due to a car accident. Put Christmas smiles on their faces.
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Step 3
OrphanageFind an orphanage in your town. Call and see how many children will be there on Christmas Day. Ask their ages and if any of them are interested in certain games or toys. If you have some extra cash, drop by a toy store and pick up some age-appropriate gifts. Buy some inexpensive Santa hats. You might even fill out child-friendly Christmas cards to make them feel extra special. Give them a reason to smile.
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Step 4
Abused WomenDon't forget the women's shelter. There's always needs to be met there. Talk to the one in charge and see what the mothers need. Again, find out how many children are staying there with their mothers. Ask if they have enough food to provide Christmas dinner. This is another area where age-appropriate toys and child-friendly Christmas cards would be appreciated.
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Step 5
Preemie BabyThere's also hospitals, Ronald McDonald houses, the elderly who are housebound, the disabled who are alone, the Veterans, and the people who stay to themselves on the street. There is no shortage of ways to give during the holidays. Whatever you can do, however much you can donate - of yourself or your money - give. It's what Christmas is all about. Not only will you discover you didn't spend Christmas alone after all, you'll realize you're very blessed and fortunate to have a home, job, your health. Whatever you have, you'll treasure it even more.
Comments
sabrinacareer said
on 5/26/2009 Great ideas and not only for Christmas!
PABechko said
on 1/11/2009 Wonderfully caring ideas. this holiday season may be past, but many more are to come.
sharishops said
on 1/10/2009 When you reach out you don't have to reach very far! Well done! *****
JasneJ said
on 12/22/2008 I am with Wesley J, retirement centers and nursing homes are always happy for visitors.Great ideas.Thanks.
newmama said
on 12/22/2008 Really good article! I always worry about people who have to spend the holidays alone. It's easy to take it for granted when you're surrounded by family and friends on the holidays.