It is important to acknowledge that there are several families right in our community who do not have access to shelter and meals. These less fortunate families may not be able to find to a warm meal or a place to stay. Donating to local charities and nonprofit organizations is a great way to aid those in need, and is also a great experience that will warm your heart. There are many organizations that will accept donations that you can contribute to this season.
A nonprofit organization called Services from the Heart Backpack Buddies Program specifically provides benefits for children. Less fortunate kids in our community who are receiving free or reduced lunches at school often don’t have access to food over weekends and holiday breaks. By simply donating backpacks full of healthy snacks to this organization, you can save a child from being hungry on days they are not in school.
SPAN, an organization located right in Severna Park, aids members of our community by providing them with food, as well as helping them with utility and medical bills that are unable to be paid. According to the organization’s website, “For over 25 years SPAN has been serving our neighbors to help them through a critical or emergency situation such as utility turn-offs, court-ordered evictions, and prescription/medical needs and food.” To help, foods like cereal, pasta, peanut butter and jelly, as well as toiletry items and monetary donations are possible donations you could make.
Programs such as Lighthouse Shelter and Sarah’s House provide food, shelter and services every day in order to prevent homelessness. The goal of both programs is to help families and individuals transition to independent lifestyles. Whether you donate non-perishable foods, gift cards to department and grocery stores, toiletries or monetary donations, you will be helping these shelters reach their goals.
Orphan Grain Train is a Christian organization that works to provide clothing, medical supplies, and other needs to people in the U.S. as well as in other countries. This nonprofit will accept your blankets, clothing and school supplies, just to name a few items. By donating supplies to OGT or volunteering at the Maryland branch in Millersville, the needs of families around the world can be met. As the organization recently delivered a large amount of Severna Park High School’s old furniture to schools in Liberia, Elfie Eberle, the Maryland Branch Manager, encourages the donation of backpacks. “These kids walk great distances to come to school and a backpack would be a great help to them in carrying everything they need,” said Eberle.
Donating to charity is not just a way to assist our less fortunate neighbors; it can also be a fun activity that leaves you with a priceless feeling of joy. The community needs our help this season, so spend some of your own time or money to assist those who are struggling. You have the ability to make a huge impact on another family’s life.
