Easy Ways to Give Back During the Holidays

Make giving back to your local community part of your holiday traditions.

While you’re trimming the tree and decking the halls, spare a thought for those without the privilege to do either. The holidays are a special time of year, one in which we shouldn’t forget about those less fortunate. Luckily, there are plenty of ways for you and your family to get involved in giving back this season.

Volunteer at the soup kitchen. During the holidays, soup kitchens often get busy and hectic. These places rely on the kindness of volunteers, so make the effort to take down some food and feed the needy and homeless.

Write a letter to a soldier. Often, active military members are deployed abroad and are not home for the holidays. Spare a few moments out of your day to make some cards to send off to our troops. Write that you are incredibly grateful for their service and that the country has not forgotten their dedication. This is a great way to lift their spirits!

Take homemade cookies to a nursing home. Senior citizens in nursing homes aren’t always lucky enough to have friends and family to visit them during the holidays, which can feel especially isolating. Call your local nursing home to see if they would be open to you dropping off homemade cookies or baked goods for their residents. Handing out the cookies may help you get to know the residents and you may get to hear a good story or two!

Help your local animal shelter. Don’t forget about four-legged friends this season! It would be a lovely gesture to volunteer at your local shelter as a family. The dogs may need to be walked and socialized, which is a great activity for the whole family. If you can’t spare any time, ask the shelter what’s on their wish list and stop at a pet store to pick up collars, dog beds, pet food, and toys.

Pay it forward. The next time you’re paying for the toll road or buying your morning coffee, pay for the person behind you. It’s as simple as that! You’ll know that you made a stranger’s day!

From all of us at Abbate Insurance, we hope that you and your family have safe and enjoyable holidays! Be sure to visit us for all of your insurance needs in New Haven, Connecticut.