Giving Local “For families, I think it’s important to share with children exactly why it is important to help others. Our community is strengthened when we look out for each other and we all need help at different points throughout our lives. I think the holidays are a good time to model to children what giving back looks like. Donating can involve food, funds or time and all three can help to make a difference.” ~ Laura Stonecipher, Program Manager at Gallatin Valley Food Bank, HRDC
Gallatin Valley Food Bank
Skipping dinner, eating less or not eating well – food insecurity impacts people from all walks of life every day. Gallatin Valley Food Bank is a critical link between food and the people who need it in southwest Montana. Sitting down as a family and talking about the reality of hunger and how it feels is a good way to engage kids in the need to feed our community. You might find that your kids love going to the grocery store and picking out food they want to donate. Adult guidance is suggested: No one needs cases of Cocoa Pebbles! Food donations can be dropped off at the food bank Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Donate Blood
Donating blood is a great example of giving in a nontraditional, much needed way during the holidays. Though children under age 16 are not eligible to donate blood, parents who donate provide a wonderful example of selfless giving. Blood cannot be manufactured or made; it can only come from people who donate some of their own to help others. This type of gift truly saves lives! Besides the obvious need for trauma patients, blood is often needed for cancer patients, those with blood disorders, surgeries and even sometimes during childbirth. Donating blood is a very meaningful way to give during the holidays.
“Blood donation became especially important to our family following our toddler’s battle with cancer. In the 17 months following his diagnosis of Stage IV, high risk neuroblastoma, our son Caden received 35 transfusions of blood products. These transfusions sustained his life and allowed him to continue with his aggressive treatment. Each time a bag was hung, I gave thanks for the anonymous donor who so selflessly gave of themselves and their time. It really is a precious, humbling gift! Caden is a healthy middle schooler today, and our family hosts an annual blood drive called “Get Poked for Caden” each June in celebration and to support our community.” ~ Pam Shrauger
GALLATIN VALLEY FOOD BANK
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November 2021
The Harvest of Giving blood drive will be held on Giving Tuesday, November 30, from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The Commons at Baxter and Love. To find other blood drives near you, go to Vitalant.org. Vitalant is the exclusive provider of blood to Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital.
