With your fridge filling with Thanksgiving meal prep + the excitement of getting the best deals on all the new gadgets to wrap under your Christmas tree, it can be easy to forget that not everyone is as fortunate during the holidays. Many people in our community are homeless, going hungry, or simply don’t have the money to buy gifts for their children.

So, in the spirit of giving, we’re giving you a guide to giving back. With help from y’all and a little research of our own, we compiled 9 ways to support those in need during the holidays – from buying gifts that give back, adopting a family, volunteering + more.

Gifts that give back

Festival of Trees | The 30th Annual Festival of Trees will be at the State Museum this weekend + all funds raised support Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. Enjoy time with your family this weekend while also giving a gift to the Cola community.

The Oliver Gospel Mission | Fill a Thanksgiving Box at the Oliver Gospel Mission to give a family in need a Turkey Day feast. They’re looking for food donations, including all the favorites -- turkeys, pie and cranberry sauce.

Junior League Holiday Market | Start prepping for the market now, so you’ll be ready for the crowds Dec. 4-8. All proceeds from the holiday market benefit the Junior League’s programs for children and families in the Midlands.

Toys for Tots | You’ve probably already noticed the Toys for Tots donation boxes around Cola -- like at the grocery store, but you can find the closest donation area + the best way to donate here.

Families Helping Families | This organization has helped over 54,000 families in the Midlands get food and clothing throughout the year + Christmas gifts over the holidays. You can apply to adopt a family for the season, donate or volunteer.

Donate your time

Palmetto Place | Volunteer at Palmetto Place by sponsoring an outing for their residents, preparing a meal for or with the youth, landscape and house work + mentoring and tutoring.

Ronald McDonald House | Ronald McDonald House supports families with children in the hospital. You can provide support through a donation, or volunteering to make a community meal for the families.

Keep the Midlands Beautiful | One of the best ways to give back to your community during the holidays is to help keep it clean. Organize a family or neighborhood clean-up or even work on a public area individually.

Harvest Hope Food Bank | Food is one of the most important parts of celebrating the holidays. Harvest Hope is always looking for volunteers, especially for filling Holiday Boxes for families in need for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

If you are looking for a date-specific event or ongoing volunteer opportunities, check United Way of the Midlands’ local volunteer portal.