Giving Back this Thanksgiving

Last Thanksgiving I thought that we would be back to normal for this holiday season. I was definitely wrong. But we are creating a new normal and are excited to be celebrating with family and friends in person this year. But I recognize many are not so lucky either because they are suffering the effects of the pandemic or they aren’t blessed like we are.

On Thanksgiving, it is important to reflect on the blessings we’ve been given. I am so grateful for my beautiful daughter and hard-working and handsome husband, my mom who is such a huge help, my crusader of a sister and my kind brother-in-law, my one-of-a-kind Nunny, my two adorable cats, as well as all of my amazing aunts and uncles. I am also so lucky to have some great friends, and the opportunity to own my own small business that I absolutely love. And of course I am grateful for my health, something that has become so important during these scary times.

But even more important than being grateful for those blessings is giving back to those who are having a hard time – and there are so many people suffering this holiday season. Which is why this Thanksgiving, like last year, I’m donating HAWC, Healing Abuse Working for Change, a Massachusetts organization that provides much-needed services to victims of domestic violence. It’s an organization that has helped so many, including members of my own family.

I hope you’ll join me in giving back and here are four ways you can do that:

Donate to a Shelter

I don’t know where you live, but it’s cold in New England during the holidays. And there are many people who either don’t have the proper attire to brave the cold or don’t have a place to sleep. If you’d like to donate new or gently used coats and other winter gear, check Charity Navigator to find the closest homeless shelters near you. You can also go to your local Goodwill or Salvation Army.

Donate to Support Immigrant and Refugee Communities

Without getting too political, I think that most of you will agree with me that immigrants have been dealt an unfair hand, especially over the past four years. If you would like to help those seeking citizenship in America, you can donate to the International Rescue Committee, Save The Children, UNICEF USA or Refugee Council USA.

Donate to Your Favorite Charity

Whether it’s your church, your local food bank or a national organization, giving back to a cause with any donation, small or large, can make a difference. Just choose one that serves a cause close to your heart, like I am doing this year.

Donate Your Time

Even as Covid restrictions ease up, many people will be alone this holiday season. Schedule a time to call your aunt, get your grandpa set up on Zoom and enjoy a video chat with him. If you have an elderly neighbor, find out if they need anything for their dinner, pick up those supplies and drop them on the doorstep to ensure proper social distancing.