7 Creative Ways for Seniors to Give Back This Holiday Season

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Older couple taking a walk during the holidays

Winter is here, that special time of year when we gather round to delight in twinkling lights and cozy nights, fresh-baked cookies and warm memories. There’s only one thing better than holiday cheer, and that’s spreading the joy to others.

Nothing warms the heart quite like giving back during the holidays. Volunteering or donating during this special season can not only be rewarding — it can be a lot easier than you might think!

Whether it’s baking cookies or organizing a food drive, just a little time and effort can go a long way to make someone else’s holiday. Here are a few ideas for easy, inexpensive ways that you and your friends can give back during this special season.

Nothing warms the heart quite like giving back during the holidays. Volunteering or donating during this special season can not only be rewarding — it can be a lot easier than you might think!

Get Cooking

We often don’t think about the people who sacrifice their holidays to provide important services at hospitals, police and fire stations. Take a little time out of your holiday to deliver homemade cookies, a casserole or other fixings for a holiday feast to those who serve on special days. Call ahead to find out how many workers are typically on shift, then cook accordingly.

Pack Stockings for Those in Need

If you’d like to donate to a homeless shelter or women’s shelter, stockings are the perfect gift. Head over to your local dollar store to pick up some cheap stockings and goodies to stuff them. Choose items that are both practical and fun: granola bars and candy, toothbrushes and toothpaste, warm gloves and toasty socks are just a few small items that can make a big difference.

Support a Family

There are many local charities and religious organizations that can help you sponsor a family in need. If supporting a family by yourself is difficult to do, rally your friends and loved ones to pitch in. Make shopping for toys, clothes and other gifts a fun group outing with a purpose.

Donate to a Food Bank

This charitable action is something anyone can do. Donating can be as simple as cleaning out your cupboard or as big as organizing a group donation. Plan a group trip to the donation center with a few friends and loved ones. Or get into the competitive holiday spirit and have a contest with your friends and family to see who can collect the most items.

Write Letters to Deployed Military Members

Every year, thousands of military members miss out on holidays with their loved ones back at home. Sending them a personalized holiday greeting or care package can make their spirits a little brighter during a difficult time. This can be especially meaningful coming from a fellow veteran. Organizations like Operation Gratitude can help you find ways to support our soldiers.

Knit or Crochet

Turn your favorite hobby into a warm gift to those who need it. There are a variety of organizations that accept handmade items, including baby blankets for hospitals, caps for chemotherapy patients, or socks, hats and scarves for the homeless. Organize a knitting circle with your friends or family for even more fun.

Cuddle with a Cat or Dog

If you’re an animal lover, consider giving back to your local rescue shelter this holiday season. There are many ways you can help out our four-legged friends, including raising money, donating food or cleaning supplies, or volunteering some time at the shelter. Oftentimes, shelters need someone to simply sit with cats or dogs, to help them get socialized and ready for a forever home.