Five ways to give back this holiday season

Finally, the end of what has been a really quite somber year is approaching. It would be utterly unrealistic to say that, in the middle of a difficult winter, we have that same summer motivation that got us through the first lockdown. Quite frankly, we are all tired of social distancing, missing loved ones and flakey, over-sanitised hands. 

But this period has still given us a lot to feel thankful for – our key worker heroes, invaluable community support and Yoga With Adriene – in ways we would perhaps never have appreciated so much before. And, whilst many of us are not feeling hugely grateful right now, we must not miss the opportunity to give something back (and some might be surprised how good it makes them feel). Below are five ways to give back this holiday season.

1. Gift a book to a vulnerable child

If one finds their diminished festivities have left them with a few spare pounds, why not spend the extra on donating books to children who are vulnerable and in care? BookTrust is sending books to children who might not be getting any gifts this year or who are spending Christmas away from their families for the first time.

2. Donate to a food bank

Now that Christmas dinner has suffered a last-minute down-sizing, one might find themself with a bit too much food. Instead of cooking a pièce de résistance for a table of two, donate spare food to the closest food bank. Food banks can be found here, or contribute to the collection points in a local supermarket.

3. Buy local

If still looking for gifts this year, look no further than local businesses. Small and independent businesses have taken huge hits during the pandemic and, so far, the public has done a pretty job at keeping them afloat. The gift-giving season offers a final chance to support those enterprises that kept us fed and delighted during the bleakest of times.

4. Choose Love

Another last-minute gift – and one that doesn’t require a face mask or a trek outside – is a product for a refugee from the Choose Love online store. From a warm winter coat to legal help, what is bought goes directly to those who need it. One can gift an e-card to purchase a bundle of products on behalf of a friend or family member.

5. Visit someone who may be alone this Christmas

While the holidays were never going to be as festive as we would like, for many, last-minute restrictions have left them stranded, far away from loved ones. If one knows someone who is spending the holidays alone, even if they can’t invite them in, drop over a card, some fresh mince pies or crumbling gingerbread. Simply stopping by for a quick door-step chat can remind people that they are not alone this winter.

Beatrice Tridimas