A SEASON OF GIVING:
Ways to Give Back at Any Age by Brie Gorecki, photos provided by Feeding Tampa Bay
It’s never too early to teach children the importance of giving back to others. Many organizations and charities need help year-round, but during the holiday season, the need is even greater. COVID-19 took a hit on charities worldwide, and food banks, homeless shelters and donation sites are in dire need of help, especially during the holidays. Some charities have started to see an increase in participation and donations, but plenty of opportunities remain unfilled. Project-based volunteering is a great way to get little ones involved. Making holiday cards to send to senior citizens, military posted away from home or hospital-bound children can teach what giving back is all about. Organizing a toy drive or setting up a lemonade stand to raise funds for charity are also kid-friendly ways to help others. Some organizations have age requirements for in-person volunteering, but several opportunities exist for younger children also. We’ve rounded up some local organizations you can look into for volunteering opportunities for your little ones. Be sure to check with local schools, houses of worship, hospitals and local businesses to ask about charities and organizations that they may partner with as well. If volunteering in-person isn’t an option, most organizations are always in need of donations and funds.
Feeding Tampa Bay Volunteers
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TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2021
