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4 Ways to Help Someone in Need During the Holidays

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The holiday season is upon us, and now is the time to celebrate and be thankful for all the blessings in our lives. It is also time to think about others, especially those lacking those very same things we are grateful for.

This time of year it is easy to forget that many people don’t have enough food, or might be struggling to pay the rent. If you wish to spread holiday cheer this year, do it in a way that really counts. They can be a family member, neighbor, or even someone you’ll never meet. Plus, you will be giving yourself a gift. That wonderful feeling when you know you’ve made someone else’s life better. Read on to learn four ways you can help someone in need this holiday season.

Feed The Hungry

Going to bed with a growling tummy is an unfortunate reality for many children and adults during the holidays. There are many opportunities to feed the hungry, and not all of them require money.

  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen. It costs nothing but time.
  • Organize a food drive. Speak with friends and neighbors about donating food.
  • Donate funds to a food pantry. If you are pressed for time, a financial gift is always welcome.

Send Money to Loved Ones

Hard times happen when it’s least expected. If a friend or family member is struggling, sending them a little holiday cash can truly help. It can be the difference between paying the power bill and sitting alone in the dark. The best way to send money is through Western Union. Your loved one gets cash they can use immediately or deposit in their bank account. This is especially helpful for people locked out of the traditional banking system. It’s a simple process and can be done online, in-person, or over the phone. And you can wire money almost anywhere in the world.

Nothing will put a smile on a child’s face like a brand new doll or game. Toys For Tots was created in 1947 and has been donating toys to underprivileged children ever since. When buying presents for the kids in your life, pick up an extra gift or two for the children who might go without. There are drop-boxes in nearly every community. You can also make a donation on their website. The holidays were made for kids, and any gift will be cherished for years to come.

Volunteer

Besides volunteering at your local soup kitchen, you could also make a lonely person feel wanted at a nursing home. Or you could spend time caring for abandoned animals at your local ASPCA. The worst time of year to be stuck in the hospital is the holidays. Why not see if your local hospital will allow you to visit patients alone during the holidays?

There are many opportunities to improve someone’s life this holiday season. Make a commitment to helping someone else, and discover the wonderful feelings giving selflessly can create.

Just A Guy Thing is a men's lifestyle magazine focused primarily at guys wanting to better themselves.

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