'Tis the season of giving

Every day during the month of December you could fill up a box with items of food, up until 24^th December. This can then be donated to your chosen food bank or charity to help those less fortunate this Christmas. Get in touch with your chosen food bank or charity directly to see if there are any items they urgently require. Another option to consider is contributing to a food bank drop off station at the supermarket when doing your weekly food shop. You could donate a couple of items a week, or a larger donation all in one go.
 

Many organisations arrange specific Christmas gift collections for those in need. You can help to spread some festive cheer to those less fortunate by giving them a gift to open on Christmas morning. Why not check out your local newspaper, radio station’s website, or social media community pages to see who is organising a collection in your area?

A warm winter coat is a must-have during the cold winter months for many of us. But it’s important to think of those who are unable to afford the basic items to stay warm.
 

If you’re planning to throw out an old coat you no longer wear, get in contact with your local homeless charity, night shelter or food bank who will happily take it off your hands. Reach out to family members and friends to see if they want to donate their unused coats as well. You can also donate items like hats, gloves, socks and blankets.

No one should go hungry at Christmas. Why not help make Christmas that little bit better for those in need by contacting a charity to purchase a Christmas dinner for the homeless, older people living alone or families struggling to afford a Christmas dinner.