'Tis the Season for Giving

Originally uploaded to flickr by Mulad

I wouldn’t say its the best time of year (summer, no one compares to you) but the holiday season does have something special about it. Shopping, and finding the perfect gifts for the people on your list brings a certain sense of accomplishment. But its also nice to play Santa by donating to an organization like The Salvation Army or Toys for Tots. If you’re looking to get involved with a holiday charity during this season, check out what’s happening locally on the Hill. And feel free to spread the holiday cheer by adding to the list!

Capitol Hill United Methodist Church is collecting toys at their church office through December 11. Toys and gift cards from major chains are needed. If you’d prefer to donate your time, there’s a call for volunteers on December 12 at 6:45pm to help assemble gift bags which will be given out on December 18 and Christmas Day.

Got a voice for caroling? St. Mark’s Holiday Project includes a food drive and a Christmas music sing-along to a DC area hospital on Christmas Day.

Capitol Hill Group Ministry is running the Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program and is accepting donations and sponsorships. Gift distribution is on December 21 this year. Last year, CHGM provided more than 465 people with a gift for Christmas. Items needed included clothing, toys, books and household items.

St. Joseph’s Church is running a toy drive to support the Unity Health Care Clinic in Anacostia. New, unwrapped toys are being collected until December 11. Rolls of wrapping paper and other supplies also welcome.