Ways to Make a Difference During the Giving Season
Many of us are truly blessed beyond measure, and there is no other time of year that illustrates this more than Christmas. We plan extravagant meals, family get-togethers with mountains of food and gifts, and decorate our homes with lights and Christmas trees.
But during the hustle and bustle of the season, many also turn their thoughts to those who are less fortunate. This season is always a time when we should look for ways to share God’s blessings with others. And when we help others, the Word of God tells us:
“Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.”
Are you wondering how you can make a difference during the giving season? We’ve got some ideas for you!
Faith Initiatives
Parkway Church members support a number of organizations annually through Faith Initiatives.
We’ve highlighted two of this year’s IF recipients below, and both are local. Consider making an IF pledge this year to support Faith Initiatives organizations, but there are also some other ways you can help these two local IF recipients.
Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative (MHVI)
This local nonprofit serves homeless and at-risk veterans by filling the gaps left by other veteran assistance agencies. Vets are provided with access to basic needs of secure housing, medical care, clothing and food during times of crisis. Be a blessing to our local vets and create care packages for the those being housed by the MHVI, as well as their families and pets.
Good News Club
This is an after-school club where kids learn about the love of God. Parkway Church is a sponsor of the Greendale Good News Club in Highland View Elementary School by providing supplies, resources and volunteers. Consider volunteering your time to this amazing organization!
Organizations Helping Kids
Toys for Tots
Did you know that Toys for Tots isn’t just about Christmas toys? This United States Marine Corps Reserve charity works all year to provide books and toys to America’s less fortunate children. Visit their website to find a local drop-off site!
Ronald McDonald House (RMHC)
When the best medical care for a sick child is far from home, RMHC provides a safe haven just minutes from the hospital. There is a RMHC location right here in Milwaukee and the families staying at RMHC often have many needs.
You can help by creating blessing bags with needed personal care items, healthy nonperishable snacks, and gift cards for essential needs. Also, since each child gets to pick a comfort blanket, there is a need for handmade or purchased blankets.
Kids Matter, Inc.
This organization supports abused and neglected children in foster and kinship placement, and these children enter foster care with just the clothes on their back. You can make Fostering Hope packages to give these children something to call their own while they are waiting to be placed in a foster home.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army’s mission is “To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination.” There is a location in Oak Creek, and here are a few ways to contribute.
Be a bell ringer: Make an impact in your own community by volunteering to be a Salvation Army bell ringer. Red kettle donations stay local and make an impact all year through homeless shelters, anti-human trafficking, and more.
Donate food: There are five Salvation Army food pantries in Milwaukee County, including one at the Oak Creek Centennial Church and Community Center.
Visit the Salvation Army store: Donate used household goods or shop the store.
Donate airline miles: Help move personnel quickly during a disaster or provide travel to those needing emergency medical care.
Give your time: Volunteer to work in the Salvation Army food pantry.
Support Our Local Military and Veterans
If you know a military family with a deployed parent, reach out to their spouse to see how they are doing or if they need help. Offer to entertain the kids for an afternoon to give the solo parent some time off. If you know a service member, send a card to let them know you are thinking of them. Even better, make a care package. Include things like stationery and envelopes, movies (new or used), games, and snacks. And get creative!
Remember Our Seniors
Nursing Homes/Assisted Living Centers
Consider visiting a nursing home during the holiday season to spread some Christmas cheer. Chat with the residents and hear about their remarkable lives, bring treats for the hard-working employees, or bring gifts for the residents themselves. Small items to decorate their room, homemade treats or a lap blanket make great gifts!
Senior Neighbors, Relatives, or Church Members
Do you know a senior still living at home who is having health problems or stays at home most of the time? Drop in for a visit! Ask if they need help with putting up or taking down holiday decorations. Offer to grocery shop, drive them to an appointment or assist them order gifts online. And a healthy home cooked meal is always a special treat.
Donate Blood
Blood donations are needed all year long. However, holidays are especially important. Increased travel during the holidays means more accidents. This results in an increased need for blood at a time when availability of donors is lowest due to vacations, holiday activities and seasonal illnesses. You can save a life by donating blood.
Ready to Get into the Giving Spirit This Christmas?
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”