Thankful for Lou: How to Give Back to the Community This Holiday Season

Fall Fun

The holiday season is almost here and there are so many ways we can give back. Local nonprofits and organizations are working harder than ever to meet community needs, but they can’t do it alone. Whether you’re able to lend some time or donate, here are a few foundations that can use your support this season:

Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots aim to help all children receive presents during the holidays. The most common way to give back is through donations, you can learn more here. Volunteers are needed to help sort and organize toys and donations. Learn more about volunteering here.

The Franciscan Kitchen

The Franciscan Kitchen is always searching for volunteers to help serve daily lunch. Each year they also celebrate Christmas by giving away basic clothing and personal hygiene and toiletry items. Winter apparel is also needed. Learn more about donations here and volunteering opportunities here.

The Salvation Army

Through the Salvation Army, volunteers can participate in one of many Angel Tree opportunities, register to ring a bell around town, or sign up for local service projects. Click here to learn more about seasonal volunteering and donations.

Wayside Christian Mission

The holidays are the busiest time of year for Wayside Christian Mission as they work tirelessly to help the homeless in the winter months. Besides many volunteer opportunities, they also have general and seasonal donation drives for money, clothing, food, and more. Learn more here.

Feed Louisville

Feed Louisville keeps the homeless and hungry at the forefront of their mission. They always need volunteers to help prepare meals, package snacks, or pick up donations. Click here for more information.  

Boys & Girls Haven

Boys & Girls Haven works to reduce disruption in children’s lives, to help heal the effects of abuse and neglect, and to promote their well-being among families. They offer unique volunteer opportunities depending on their needs. The organization has an Amazon Wish List that identifies donations they need the most. Click here to learn more about donation information.

St. Vincent de Paul

St. Vincent de Paul offers plenty of ways to give back this season, whether it’s through their “Santa Shop”, Holiday Cheer Campaign, Holiday Cheer Bags, or Stock the Shelves Initiative, the opportunities are endless. Click here for more information.

Home of the Innocents

Home of the Innocents can always use an extra set of hands serving food, hosting holiday crafts and games, or organizing donations. They have a Wish List that identifies donations they need the most for each month. Click here for the complete list.

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