The Season of Giving: Simple Ways to Give Back This Holiday
Written by Emma McCracken
Between finals, shopping, and family plans, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of the holidays. But this season is also the perfect time to slow down and give back, even in small ways. From local volunteering to simple acts of kindness, here are some ways you can give back this holiday season and make someone’s holiday a little brighter.
Volunteer at local food banks or shelters.
Baton Rouge organizations like the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul always need extra hands during the holidays. You can help sort donations, serve hot meals, or make care packages for families in need. A few hours of your time can go further than you think.
Donate coats, toys, or meals.
Many local drives, like Coats for Kids and Toys for Tots, accept new or gently used items for children and families. Even grocery stores like Albertsons or Walmart often have bins for food donations. You can also drop off canned goods at LSU’s Student Food Pantry to support your fellow students. Additionally, programs like the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree are great ways to support a child in need over the holidays.
Support small businesses and local charities.
Instead of buying all your gifts from big-box stores, check out local spots like the Mid City Makers Market or the Red Stick Farmers Market. Shopping locally keeps money in the community and helps small business owners thrive during the busy holiday season.
Send letters or cards to those who might feel forgotten.
Writing a simple holiday note can go a long way. Programs like Operation Gratitude or Love for Our Elders make it easy to send encouraging words to deployed service members or residents in nursing homes. A few kind sentences can bring warmth to someone far from home who may not be experiencing the holidays the way they normally would.
Pay it forward in small ways.
Not every act of giving needs to be big. Pay for someone’s coffee in line, tip a little extra, or leave a thank-you note for your barista or mail carrier. Even holding the door or giving someone a compliment can make someone’s day better.
Spread kindness online.
Organizations like Operation Christmas Child let you send Christmas gift boxes to kids around the world. You can also donate digitally through apps like Venmo or GoFundMe, where local families or nonprofits often post holiday fundraisers.
Whether you’re volunteering, donating, or just choosing to be a little kinder, every gesture matters. You don’t need a lot of time or money to make a difference. A little effort goes a long way during the holiday season.
