One of the best things about Christmas is the spirit of giving. There’s nothing like the excitement in the eyes of a child on Christmas morning, or the expression of happiness when someone opens that perfect gift you worked so hard to find. Christmas is also an opportunity for those of us who are able to help others through charitable giving. Today, I’ve got 6 ways you can spread a little joy to someone in need this holiday season.

This post was originally published in December 2020 and updated in October 2023.

6 ways you can help

Since the pandemic, many charitable organizations have made changes to how their programs operate. It’s a good idea to contact them before organizing anything to find out how you can help.

Here are six ways you can make a difference through charitable giving. Some of these ideas are alternatives to gift-giving within our families and friend groups. Others are things you can do on your own.

Donate money

This is the first idea that jumps to mind and it’s definitely the fastest and easiest option. With online donations, you can help someone from the comfort of your home.

Charitable gift exchange

If you’re looking for a different gift exchange idea with friends or co-workers, consider a charitable gift exchange. We did this at work a few years ago and it was a lot of fun.

Like other gift exchanges, you pick a name. But, instead of buying a gift for the person, you buy a toy you think the recipient would have liked as a child. After the fun of opening the gifts, donate all the toys to a local angel tree or toy drive.

Sponsor a family

This is a tough time of year for many families. Many local charities have “Adopt a family” programs. The organization will give you details of the family like names, ages, and suggestions on items they need.

This is a great activity to do with a group of friends or co-workers. When my daughters were in elementary school, their school adopted several families every year.

Canned food drive

Food banks have increased need this time of year. With the cancellation of sporting events and Santa Claus parades this year, there is less opportunity to collect non-perishable food donations. Most supermarkets have collection bins for the local food bank. Next time you’re shopping for groceries, pick up a few extra cans and fill a bag.

You can also make cash donations to your local food bank. Here are the links for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region and Food Banks Canada.

Volunteer together

If you don’t have a lot of money but still want to help, think about volunteering your time. Lots of charities need help packing and delivering food hampers or toy drive items. This is something you can do as a family or with friends.

Make a donation in someone’s name

As I’ve been focused on decluttering this year, I realize the last thing most of us need is more stuff. If you have people on your list who are looking to simplify their lives, making a donation to a charity in their name is a great way to show your appreciation without giving them something they may not want or need.

One year, my daughter Colleen decided to do that for our family stocking gift exchange. She bought a goat from Me to We instead of buying presents. She made up a nice card for the stockings to let people know what she did. You can find information on these kinds of programs on the Save the Children website.

Donations also make excellent teacher gifts. Most teachers probably don’t need another candle, coffee mug or Christmas ornament. We started making donations in the name of teachers when our girls were in elementary school. It was always very much appreciated.

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Opportunities closer to home

As you think about charitable giving, don’t forget loved ones and neighbours who may need your help. Christmas can be especially difficult for people living alone or in difficult family situations. But, there are ways you can bring a little light into their lives.

• Call friends who may be feeling isolated to check in and see what they need.
• Bake some extra cookies and deliver them to a neighbour or shut-in.
• Offer to pick up groceries the next time you’re at the supermarket.
• Drop off a hot meal to give them a break.
• If you have friends who have been affected financially by the pandemic, ask them what they need most. Maybe they’re struggling with paying their bills, or would appreciate help buying Christmas gifts for their kids.

Make the season bright

There are many ways you can make a difference and brighten the season for someone.

If you can’t think of an organization to help and you live in Canada, check out CanadaHelps.org for ideas.

Do you have other ideas for charitable giving? Tell us below.