Ways to Give Back This Year

We know this year has been more difficult than others for so many people across our communities. While there are guidelines on stores and donations to keep us safe and health, it’s made it more challenging to give back to others. However, local organizations have gotten creative with ways to benefit members of the community while maintain social distancing and limiting contact. If you are looking to help out this holiday season, check out some of these resources.

United Way of Midland Sharing Tree

Those of us in Midland be familiar with the Sharing Tree, where several local businesses display tags of local gift requests from the United Way of Midland County. While you may decide to do most of your holiday shopping from home, check out the Sharing Tree Online Impact Store:
https://eportal.unitedwaymidland.org/comm/ArticleArchive.jsp?ArticleType=SharingTree&SA=686873

Heart of West Michigan United Way

There are lots of options for donation options in the Grand Rapids area with the Heart of West Michigan United Way. Check out their 2020 Giving & Volunteer Guide:
https://www.flipsnack.com/BCF7DBCC5A8/holiday-giving-and-volunteering-guide-2020.html

Walmart Angel Tree Program

The year, Walmart has partnered with the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Calling it #RescueChristmas, the partnership allows donors to enter their zip code to find local participating Salvation Army locations, view their wish lists at:

https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/walmart-angel-tree/

Central Michigan Area Donations

There are several organizations in need of donation the Mt Pleasant community. So much so, that Epicenter Mt Pleasant has put together a wish list for local causes at:

https://www.secondwavemedia.com/epicenter/features/nonprofit-wishlist2020-111920.aspx?fbclid=IwAR1kPOu8aamJSeWVtVCwZkKI446IzbY0m5rJdsytIO5AHOFuNdPdnGIxsE4

Toys for Tots

This well-known toy donation drive by the Marines has several ways to donate and brighten up a child’s Christmas morning. Those interested can donate funds, donate a toy at a local drop box, or shop their virtual store to donate a toy in your area. Learn more at: https://www.toysfortots.org/donate/Default.aspx

Keep Your Eyes Open

While these are all some great opportunities to help those in your community this holiday season, they are not the only options. There may be drives or collections for supplies all around you. No matter if or how you choose to donate this year, we are proud of all of our local communities and how they have worked together to overcome this unprecedented year.