The Gift of Giving to Those in Need During the Holidays

 

Lighting candles, buying presents, baking cookies… That is what makes Christmastime so cozy and comfortable. But what some of us experience as the best time of the year can be even harder for others. For those who are not able to access enough food, clothes, or even a roof over their head, Christmas presents aren’t the priority.

A program organized by Caritas is “La spesa che vale” is where you can donate either money for one or more meals or choose which food items you exactly want to buy. Your donation supports the soup kitchen that cooks warm meals daily for the ones suffering from hunger. Here you can find the page and with just a few clicks you can help someone to fill their stomach: https://www.laspesachevale.it/regala-un-menu/

And not just Caritas tries to offer a helping hand: Sant’Edigio is a Christian community that helps people worldwide that need it the most. On December 25 members organize Christmas lunches in the Basilica of San Lorenzo, Fondazione Spazio Reale and Oratorio di San Tommaso d’Aquino. If you consider yourself a good chef and have no plans during the holidays they’re looking for people with cooking skills. You don’t see yourself in the kitchen or have little time? They also collect blankets, shoes and clothes which will be distributed. Just leave your items on one of these drop-off points:

• Thursday and Saturday from 5 to 7 pm at Via dei Serragli 117 rosso
• Saturday from 4 to 7 pm at Via della Pergola 8
• Sunday from 5 to 6:30 pm in Corte dei Manetti 8

Your heart beats for arts and crafts? Made In Sipario and Centro Terapeutico Europeo are are two non-profit organizations that encourage the creative spirit and free development of people with intellectual disabilities, autism or special needs. During extended holiday period (through January 6) the Charity Corner di Fondazione CR Firenze (located on the corner of Piazza Santa Maria Nuova and Via Maurizio Bufalini) provides space for these organizations to raise attention and show solidarity. Everyday from 10 am to 7 pm visitors can buy their handcrafted artisan projects, spend some time socializing, and therefore support their work as well as gift some happiness for just showing up.

Let’s do something meaningful and help where it’s possible. As you see: it’s not a big deal. You can choose if you want to spend a little of your time and get active, donate a small amount, or provide mental support by just being present. One way or another – it will make a difference. Especially because most of us have the opportunity to give while still having enough for themselves and their families. Let’s make a Christmas gift for those who can’t experience the holidays as we do.  (alina rudolph)