Holiday Cheer & Charity in Atlanta

For all its timeless magic, December has a tendency of speeding things up. It adds a bit more pressure to our daily routine as we try to squeeze more time in for presents, social events, decorating … and oh, the shopping. Strangely enough, the end of the year also slows things down somehow; it helps put things in perspective and makes us understand—time and again—that we’re not alone and that we can offer help and support to those less fortunate.

If you’re in Atlanta and up for a good deed or feel like giving back this time of year, here are a few options worth checking out:

Atlanta Children’s Shelter

The wonderful people at the Atlanta Children’s Shelter share one mission: to break the cycle of poverty for families facing homelessness by focusing on early childhood education. You, too, can become an ally in this noble quest by volunteering, donating, or even going the extra mile to help host a fundraiser. This season, you can be part of their annual Holiday House event and make the season truly special for families who are currently or formerly homeless.

Atlanta Mission

To those living here trying to make their community a better place, the Atlanta Mission is no secret. If you share their objective to leave a lasting influence and end homelessness, consider volunteering to provide and serve a meal at one of their facilities this December. You can also help by browsing their Christmas catalog and funding a hot meal or a warm bed to a person in need.

Children’s Restoration Network

If you’re looking to do your part, the Children’s Restoration Network is among the non-profit organizations that could use your attention and support. The agency has been around for quite a while trying to make the world a better place for children and women with children. This month, the elves at the Children’s Restoration Network hold the 12 Days of Caring Toy and Gift Drive 2019. Even the smallest contribution can help this worthy initiative and touch the lives of many.

Second Helpings

The mission of this non-profit food rescue organization is simple: reduce hunger by reducing food waste across the Atlanta metro. But, in order to do this, they need your help! Second Helpings is constantly updating its routes and needs volunteers who can transport food as soon as possible from food donors to partner agencies. The organization has many volunteer opportunities, so don’t waste time and apply now!

PAWS Atlanta

The people at PAWS Atlanta have a deep love for furry friends. Without any federal funding, PAWS Atlanta relies on the generosity of its supporters. You can become one and help their cause by giving money, getting involved in their events, or simply volunteering to help their small staff. Or, take it a step further and offer to foster or even adopt one or more of the many cats and dogs at the shelter. This winter’s event is a lovely day out for you and one of the doggos there; the pooches are dying to stretch their legs and go for a long Saturday stroll with you. What a wonderful idea that is!

FurKids

As far as Georgia animal rescue initiatives go, Furkids is among the best. The organization runs its own thrift store that helps fund Furkids programs, and customers and their donations are more than welcome! If you can’t take one of the shelter pets home with you, you can also help by sponsoring one of them; or, be their holiday hero by making a year-end donation. The younger generation of pet lovers can also get involved by volunteering to be Santa’s little helpers for Christmas events across Atlanta adoption centers. All you have to do is sign in and bring the cheer!

Trees Atlanta

As a proud steward of Atlanta’s urban forest, Trees Atlanta is a unique community resource for sustainable growth and design, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities. They pursue their mission through a variety of programs including small and large tree planting, forest restoration, adult and youth education, tree care and advocacy. Since their beginnings in 1985, Trees Atlanta has taken a grassroots approach by working directly with residents, neighborhood groups and schools to reach common conservation goals. In all neighborhoods where they work, the planting and restoration work becomes a catalyst for cooperation and civic responsibility. The results are added beauty, increased shade, cooler temperatures, cleaner air and untold growth in civic pride and community involvement. If you share their vision of conservation and environmental initiatives, you, too, can become part of the solution by donating, volunteering, or partaking in any of the planting and education events.

Image source: Trees Atlanta Facebook Page

The holidays are a time of spreading joy and giving back. So, why wait to make a difference? Start with one of these area charities spreading goodness in the local community!