Give the gift of giving for the holidays
During the season of giving, time spent volunteering can be more valuable than money or gifts
by Petra Schultz
Staff Reporter
(Terrah Starling/The Chaparral)
When the time comes closer to holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, non-profit organizations begin looking for donations of various kinds for people who are down on their luck or who have to face a life changing situation. Millions of people aren’t able to celebrate Christmas because they do not have the money to do so.
But how can students, who are usually on a low budget help those people with their little budget? There are other ways to help people in need without big money. The following are some ideas for those who want to volunteer or help in a different way.
One suggestion is to donate clothes or furniture, as various shelters are looking for those kind of donations. It is easy, fast, and makes room for new clothes. It is okay if the pieces show some wear, as long as they are intact. They should not have holes or be unwearable. “Shelter from the Storm” in Palm Desert for example, is looking for clothing and shoe donations for women and children. The clothes can be dropped off at 73-555 Alessandro Drive, Palm Desert, anywhere from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Another idea is to donate canned food and non-perishable items. The ASCOD Student Senate is collecting canned and non-perishable food at the Office of Student Life starting Nov. 14 until Dec. 15. ASCOD wants to get the students of COD to help local residents, who are not fortunate enough to be able to provide their own food. ASCOD is requesting canned, dried food, also powdered milk, infant formula and packaged seeds.
Even though ASCOD appreciates all donations, they cannot accept food donations in glass jars, fresh products, frozen or perishable food. In addition ASCOD is asking students to donate money, food, or time that would make a difference in the lives of hungry neighbors, families and children. As an incentive to the clubs that are participating, the club that brings the most food during the month will be awarded a pizza lunch party.
Local food shelters are looking for help in their kitchens as well. Many non-profit organizations are understaffed or have just a few volunteers, and can usually use help. Children’s hospitals and children’s homes are happy to have a story teller once in a while. These children will appreciate someone who reads a story to them. All it takes is a call to one of the institutions to set everything up. Also, some simple treats or snacks at the end of the reading would make the kids day, but only if the facility allows it.
People are not the only ones who are less fortunate. Local animal shelters are always looking for help. Every year thousands of pets are sent to animal shelters. Animal shelters are thankful for every help because most animal shelters are understaffed. The workers and pets appreciate all help they can get. To help out, just call the nearest animal shelter.
Christmas is much more than present and good food. It is the time to give and help other people who were not as lucky as others. Christmas should be a happy time for everyone.
Short URL: http://thechaparral.com/?p=4101
Posted by Campus Life
on Dec 5 2011. Filed under Advisor Approved, Campus Life, TOP STORIES, Vol. 57, Issue 6.
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