There’s more to the spirit of Christmas than mistletoe and gingerbread; after all, the holidays are also a season of generosity. If you’re wondering how to make a difference, consider offering time, money, and/or effort to an organization whose work makes our community a better place to live. There are plenty of places worthy of your support– and our list is just the tip of the iceberg.
Aiding Our Social Services
Lydia Place has been providing resources for individuals and families facing homelessness since 1989, and their holiday giving guide (available on lydiaplace.org) is a great place to start. In addition to a traditional monetary donation, you can participate in their Adopt a Family program, become a monthly donor, or purchase Lydia Place’s new gourmet chocolate bar. This sweet treat was developed by K’UL Chocolate in collaboration with San Juan Sea Salt and Anytime Toffee, and all proceeds go directly to the organization.
Lydia Place, Courtesy of Lydia Place
The Opportunity Council (Bellingham) and Community Action of Skagit County offer a range of programs to aid the homeless as well as low-income families and individuals. Both accept monthly and one-time-only donations via their website, and they’re always on the lookout for volunteers.
Our Kitchen Bellingham, Courtesy of Our Kitchen
The Max Higbee Center and The Arc of Whatcom County are both dedicated to supporting children and individuals with developmental disabilities, and you learn more about donations and volunteer opportunities online. Alternatively, you can support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by purchasing delicious baked goods from Our Kitchen Bellingham, a local business providing employment opportunities for those with IDD.
Looking for more ways to volunteer? The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County can help you find seasonal opportunities with organizations ranging from Toys for Tots to the Salvation Army.
The Opportunity Council, by Clinton Lively
Protecting Land and Sea
If you’d like to donate time or money to environmental causes, some of our favorite Indigenous-led environmental organizations include Whiteswan Environmental and Sacred Sea, both of which promote protection and restoration of the environment, culture, and waters of the Salish Sea.
Want to get your hands dirty? Organizations like Whatcom Land Trust, RE Sources, the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, and Whatcom Million Trees Project all offer community events and work parties for individuals of all skill levels.
Whatcom Land Trust, Courtesy of Whatcom Land Trust
Providing Meals for All
When it comes to food, the Bellingham Food Bank, the Salvation Army, and Helping Hands (Skagit) help to ensure that each and every family has access to nutritious meals this holiday season and beyond. You can support their work through volunteering or by making a monetary donation.
There are lots of ways to support the Lighthouse Mission, and this includes donating goods like food. Beyond meal staples, the organization also requests donations of baked goods during the holiday season. Friendship House in Skagit serves more than 66,000 no-cost meals per year at the Friendship House Cafe, and to help them continue this mission, they are happy to accept most food donations.
This is an excerpt from our November/December feature, Classic Christmas. Read the previously posted excerpt here.
