While this is the time of year that many of us look forward to time with friends and family and bountiful meals, there are many in our community who are struggling. The holidays can be an especially tough time for people who have fallen on hard times or are missing loved one. With so many organization drives out there, it’s easy to help! Here are three ways residents in Scottsdale can give back this season.
Scottsdale Fire Department Toy Drive
This Scottsdale holiday tradition kicked off on Black Friday and goes through December 23. Just drop off new, unwrapped toys for kids of all ages to any Scottsdale Fire Department station or the headquarters. All donations received are distributed to partner organizations that serve local families in need. The SFD received more than 15,000 toys last year and are hoping raise the bar this year. Need toy ideas? Check out the wish list flier!
Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree
The Christmas Angel Tree has been an Arizona shopping tradition for over 30 years, so it’s no wonder many peope have made it a mainstay in their own family traditions. It’s simple. Stop by the tree at one of 14 shopping malls – including Scottsdale Fashion Square – then select a tag from the tree, find a gift that fits and return it to the volunteers.
If you prefer to do your shopping and giving online, there’s even an online portal where you can see the needs and requests of many and fulfill a Christmas wish straight from home. Of course you can also opt for a straight cash donation, which is always useful. What’s unique about this program is that it is not focused only on gifts for children – seniors and adults deck the trees, too. The Christmas Angel Tree program runs through December 21.
Vista Del Camino Adopt a Family
The Scottsdale Vista del Camino Community Center is not just a community hub, it’s a helping hand. Throughout the year the center supports homeless community members or those in crisis. During the holiday season, the center runs an Adopt-a-Family Holiday Program, helping up to 500 local families truly enjoy the season.
The Adopt-a-Family Program honors all holidays, from Christmas to Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Ramadon. A sponsor is matched with a family and provided with a wish list of needs, along with notes on the family to help guide shopping. Each family also receives a grocery gift card to help purchase a special holiday meal.
Can’t commit to an entire family? You can also donate food and gifts for general distribution. Since the center supports the community throughout the year, including emergency food boxes, non-perishable food is always appreciated. Right now the food bank could really use peanut butter, boxed prepared meals, cereal, beans and fruit.
So while you’re out running errands or picking up last minute gifts, why not pick up one more and help a local resident in need.
Don Matheson
Realtor | Founder
The Matheson Team – RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-405-4228
[email protected]
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