Originally uploaded to flickr by WishUponACupcake
The day isn’t called Thanksgiving for nothing. There are those among us who could use a helping hand year round, and the holidays are no exception.
Why not mark the start of the season by giving back to the less fortunate? Even if you’ll be out of town for the holidays, there are many ways to donate goods or write a check to benefit a local family in need.
With less than two weeks to go, plenty of places on the Hill are accepting basket donations. Capitol Hill Group Ministry is collecting baskets throughout November. Last year, they provided 1,540 meals for families on the Hill. Baskets cost around $50 for a family of four and the Ministry estimates demand will be close to 475 baskets.
Prefer to donate your time? Volunteer opportunities are available at the Ministry for basket distribution to seniors on November 17th and community basket distribution on Nov 20th.
Christ Church is also collecting Thanksgiving baskets.
SOME’s Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger is a fun morning run that draws many Capitol Hill residents each year (including yours truly) benefiting the poor and homeless in DC. The race is a great reason to get out of bed early on Thanksgiving day, and an even better excuse for eating pie later in the day. If running isn’t your thing, there are plenty of walkers and a fun run for kids too. SOME is also accepting food pantry donations for the holidays.
The Capital Area Food Bank is once again “Bringing in the Birds with Bucks” via their program which raises “funds to provide Senior Brown Bag clients with a special package that includes Thanksgiving trimmings and easy-to-prepare portions.” The food bank also has a webpage detailing volunteering opportunities this month.
Time to clean out the coat closet? Capitol Hill Boy Scot Troop 500 will gladly take those jackets for their coat drive. The collection will be at Eastern Market on Saturday, November 17th. Donations to be put towards dry-cleaning costs also welcome.
Know of another chance for charitable giving on the Hill this holiday season? Add it to the comments below!