Give to Toys for Tots
Toys for Tots is a program started by the United States Marine Corps Reserve, which helps collect and distribute new toys for less fortunate kids. Their overall goal is to spread the joy of Christmas and bring awareness to America’s disadvantaged children. If you would like to donate to Toys for Tots or learn more about this charity, follow this link: Collin County Toys for Tots

Donate blankets and coats
With the weather becoming significantly colder as we move into winter, the struggle of keeping warm grows for the homeless population. Project Warm Us is the perfect way to provide warmth to the homeless in Dallas. This program collects any new or gently used warm clothing such as blankets, coats, sweaters, hats, gloves, scarves, shoes, and socks. Project Warm Us will be gathering these items all throughout mid-December. If you would like to donate or learn more about this program, follow this link: Project Warm Us.

Collect food for your local food pantry
Collecting and donating nutritious, non-perishable food for a nearby food pantry is simple yet effective to give back to your community. Many vulnerable people who face food insecurity heavily rely on these pantries to provide them with meals that they cannot afford on their own. To find a local food pantry, follow this link: North Texas Food Bank.

Shop at small businesses
This holiday season, consider shopping small for all your gifting needs. By supporting your local businesses, you not only are benefiting that specific business but are helping create more job opportunities, receiving better and more personal customer service, creating a lower impact on the environment, and investing more into your community.

Volunteer at a nursing home
There are many residents of nursing homes that do not have any family visiting them over the holidays. By volunteering, you are providing these people with good company and possibly keeping them from feeling alone or isolated. To find a retirement home near you, follow this link: RetireNet.com.