Inexpensive Ways to Give Back During the Holiday Season

• Monetary donations are always appreciated but are not always necessary to give back to your local community.
• Giving back to others can be done through volunteer opportunities and good deeds.
• Donating your unwanted clothes to the Salvation Army or unused food to the local food bank can positively impact your community.

The holiday season is quickly approaching, and many charitable organizations need volunteers, donations, and acts of charity. Though donating money is often the first thing to come to mind when giving back to your community, there are many other ways to make a positive impact. 

If you are on a budget or simply cannot afford to donate to local charities, there are several alternative ways to give back without breaking the bank. But, of course, charity donations are not the only way to give back to those in need. Here are five alternative ways to make a difference in your community this holiday season.

Donate to Your Community’s Food Pantry

Many families cannot afford to buy groceries, let alone cook a holiday feast. Donating food to your community’s food pantry will help feed many families in need. Consider donating items that are non-perishable, such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and baking mixes.

Gift Your Unwanted Goods to Local Charities

If you have unwanted items in your home, consider donating them to local charities instead of throwing them away. People are constantly in need of home goods, clothes, and other household items. Those in need will appreciate any gently used or new items. By donating your items to local charities, you can rest assured that they will give your items away to the right family.



Volunteer at Your Community’s Animal Shelter

Animals are equally important, and shelters are always in need of more volunteers. Volunteering at your local animal shelter will allow you to save animal lives. Many animal shelters need volunteers to walk dogs, keep animals company, or take close care of sick animals. If you’re an animal lover, volunteering at an animal shelter will be not only rewarding but also inexpensive and fun.

Start a Community Garden for the Holidays

If your neighborhood has a community garden, a great way to give back is to become a volunteer. Community gardens are useful because they serve as a place to grow vegetables and plants while maintaining a safe and welcoming environment.

If your town or neighborhood does not currently have a community garden, starting one may be an option if you want to give back during the holidays. By creating a shared garden, you give your neighborhood a boost and invest in the community without breaking your bank account. 

Spread Awareness on Social Media

Though charities and organizations accept donations, money isn’t the only thing they expect or need. Spreading awareness about their mission and work via social media is free and can make a lasting impact. By sharing information about volunteering opportunities, donation opportunities, and the organization itself, you spread awareness and influence others to do the same. 

Partner with a Local Business

If you are a business owner in your community, you may be able to give back to your community by offering them discounts or sale prices on your goods or services. In addition, for certain groups of people, such as those who are homeless, you can give away your goods or services for a limited amount of time.

If you are not a business owner, consider partnering with a local business in your community. By working together, you may be able to help the local business start a holiday campaign, such as free “Haircuts for the Homeless” exclusively on Christmas Eve.

What are some inexpensive ways to give back to your community beyond the holiday season? Let us know in the comments below!