- December 4, 2024
- Category: News, Tips & Advice
The holiday season is a time of joy, reflection, and giving. As we gather with loved ones and celebrate the spirit of the season, it’s also an opportunity to extend our compassion to those in need. Charities and nonprofit organizations play a vital role during this time, providing essential services and support to individuals and families facing hardships. The work they do not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of community and belonging, reminding us of the importance of kindness and generosity.
During the holidays, many charities experience a significant increase in donations, which are crucial for sustaining their programs throughout the year. This period accounts for nearly one-third of all charitable giving, making it an essential time for nonprofits to secure funding. Beyond monetary contributions, there are countless ways to get involved, from volunteering your time to organizing drives for food, clothing, or toys. Every act of kindness counts and can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
Here are ten local charities that are making a significant impact in our community this holiday season:
Feed Nova Scotia
Feed Nova Scotia is dedicated to reducing food insecurity by sourcing and distributing food through a network of community partners. Their mission involves distributing nearly three million kilograms of donated food annually to over 140 member food banks and meal programs across the province. To support their efforts, individuals can help by volunteering at their warehouse or donating non-perishable food items. For more information on how to get involved, visit their website at Feed Nova Scotia
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is committed to providing assistance through emergency shelters, food banks, and various social services. Their mission is rooted in the belief of sharing the love of Jesus Christ while meeting human needs without discrimination. Individuals can contribute to their efforts by volunteering for their kettle campaign during the holiday season or by donating toys for their holiday toy drive, which supports families in need. For more details on how to help and learn about their programs, visit their website at The Salvation Army.
EJ’s PJs
EJ’s PJs is dedicated to collecting pajamas for children in need, ensuring they have warm sleepwear during the winter months. This initiative began in 2011, inspired by Patricia Poggi and her sons, and has grown into a community-wide effort that collects new pajamas to donate to local charities. Individuals can help by donating new pajamas at various collection points around the community. For more information on how to support this cause, visit their website at EJ’s PJs .
The IWK Foundation
The IWK Foundation is dedicated to supporting the IWK Health Centre, which provides essential care for women, children, and youth. Their mission focuses on enhancing health services and ensuring that families receive the best possible care. Individuals can contribute to this vital work by participating in fundraising events or by becoming a monthly donor, helping to sustain the programs and services offered by the IWK Health Centre. For more information about their initiatives and how to get involved, visit their website at IWK Foundation.
Hope Cottage
Hope Cottage is committed to providing meals and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. This charitable organization serves over 200 meals daily and relies entirely on community donations and volunteer efforts. To assist in their mission, you can volunteer your time to help prepare and serve meals or make financial contributions to support their operations. For more information on how to get involved, visit their website at Hope Cottage..
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Halifax
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Halifax is dedicated to providing mentorship opportunities for youth through one-on-one relationships. Their mission focuses on matching young people facing adversity with trained adult mentors, fostering supportive relationships that can lead to positive life changes. Individuals can contribute by becoming a mentor, engaging directly with youth, or by organizing fundraising events to support their programs. For more information on how to get involved and make a difference, visit their website at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada .
The Canadian Red Cross
The Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to providing emergency assistance and disaster relief across Canada. Their mission encompasses a wide range of services, including support for individuals affected by personal disasters, such as house fires, as well as larger-scale emergencies and natural disasters. Individuals can contribute to their vital work by participating in training sessions that prepare volunteers to assist in emergencies or by choosing to donate blood or funds to support their ongoing efforts. For more information on how to get involved, visit their website at Canadian Red Cross.
Nova Scotia SPCA
The Nova Scotia SPCA is committed to protecting animals from cruelty and promoting responsible pet ownership. As a registered charity, they follow open-admission and no-kill principles, helping nearly 15,000 pets each year through rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming programs. Individuals can support their mission by fostering an animal during the holidays or by contributing supplies and funds for their animal care programs. For more information on how to get involved, visit their website at Nova Scotia SPCA .
Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation
The Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation is dedicated to supporting innovation and exceptional care at the Dartmouth General Hospital by connecting with those who believe in the hospital and the communities it serves. Since its inception in 1975, the foundation has invested over $50 million in medical equipment, facility renovations, and special programs to enhance patient care. Individuals can help by making a donation today, which directly impacts the health services provided to the community. To contribute, visit their donation page at Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation
Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank
Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank is dedicated to working with the community to provide food, furniture, and emergency assistance to those in need. Established in 1983, this organization serves an average of 1,200 families each month in the Halifax Regional Municipality, offering not just food but also furniture, clothing, school supplies, and financial emergency assistance. Individuals can support their mission by making a donation today, which helps ensure that essential services continue for those facing hardship. To contribute, please visit their donation page at Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank .
Helping Our Community
As we embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season, let’s remember the incredible work being done by these organizations. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness about their missions, we can all contribute to making our community a better place. Together, we can ensure that everyone experiences the warmth and joy that the holidays bring. Let’s come together to uplift those in need and create lasting change during this special time of year.