Show your Local Love
‘Tis the season of giving and there are many ways to give back to members of your community who are in need.
The United Way KFL&A encourages you to consider a meaningful gift in kind this year. Whether it is food, household items, clothing, toiletries or even your time that you want to give, United Way can help guide your donations and ensure that appropriate items find their way to those who need them most.
Whether you are looking to donate as an individual or as a group through your workplace or at a festive gathering, there are plenty of ways to give back during this holiday season and show your local love. United Way is happy to accept donations and distribute them to organizations on your behalf.
Here are some suggestions in terms of areas of need:
Hygiene items and toiletries
Many of United Way KFL&A’s partner agencies are always in need of toiletries including: oral hygiene products (toothbrushes, floss, toothpaste), feminine hygiene products, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap, hand soap, brushes and combs, hair elastics, shaving cream and razors, band-aids, and kleenex.
Items for infants and children
Items for infants including sippy cups, pacifiers, bibs, diapers, baby wipes, and diaper cream. Warm clothing for infants and children including sleepers, coats, hats and mitts are always welcome and children’s socks. Books for children under six and wooden puzzles.
Food items
Portable food items like granola bars and water bottles are always in demand at many agencies. Canned foods, pasta, cereal. baby foods and other non-perishable items are also needed.
Clothing
As mentioned above, there is a need for warm clothing for infants and kids, but also for teens and adults. Socks, warms coats (especially men’s larger sizes), boots and other shoes, hats, mitts, pyjamas, underwear, sports bras, and slippers are always welcomed. Clothing for different weather conditions is also appreciated including rain gear and umbrellas.
Household items
Items that aren’t often considered include garbage bags, cleaning supplies, laundry soap, freezer storage bags, sealable containers toilet paper and paper towels. Kitchen items are also appreciated including crock pots, roasting pans, coffee urns, dishes, pots and pans and other kitchen wares. Bedding, towels, and face cloths, sleeping bags and blankets are also needed.
Gift cards
Gift cards are not something many people would think about donating, but gift cards for stores like Walmart, grocery stores like No Frills, Tim Hortons, McDonalds and Shoppers Drug Mart are appreciated at many agencies, especially during the holidays as stocking stuffers for youth or to help families purchase gifts for their children. Gas gift cards are also an option.
Craft supplies
Many agencies run creative programs and are in need of coloured pencils and markers, colouring books for all ages, glue guns, glue sticks, journals, other craft supplies.
Volunteer
Many organizations also offer a hot holiday meal that are served on or before Christmas Day and volunteers may be needed – best to reach out to the organization to be sure.
Here is a schedule of meals on offer:
December 23 – Martha’s Table
December 24 – Tommy’s will be offering their annual Christmas meal from 5 to 8 p.m.
December 25 – St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11:30 a.m.
For other volunteer opportunities in the community throughout the year, visit the Volunteer Centre.
Give the gift of hope this holiday season by shopping online here for teachers, colleagues, family, friends and neighbours, making a donation on their behalf to the United Way KFLA. Making a donation to the Gift of Hope is a great way to show your thoughtfulness and a great way to give a gift near or far.
Your recipient will know that you’re thinking about them, and you’ll know that you’re making a lasting difference in the lives of others right here in your community.
To make a Gift of Hope please click here. Your tax receipt will be emailed immediately upon making your gift.
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