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QC12102015

10 The Queens Courier • holiday • DECEMBER 10, 2015 for breaking news visit www.qns.com holiday guide HOLIDAY HELPERS By Tresa Erickson The holidays are a great time to give back to the community. The mood is light, people in general are feeling more generous and volunteer s opportunities are abundant. If you’re interested in helping out this holiday season, here are some suggestions. Donate food Many organizations hold canned food drives during the holidays. Clean out your cabinets or do some shopping and make a donation. Some grocery stores may even do all of the work for you, bagging up items in need and delivering them to a food bank for a small fee. Buy a few bags and let the grocery store take care of the rest. If you don’t know of any canned food drives, you can always drop off donations at your local food bank. Shelves tend to empty fast during cold, lean times, and you can help keep them full with regular donations. If you cannot afford to donate any food, consider donating time. Food banks are always in need of volunteers to organize and distribute donations. Donate toys Many organizations also hold toy drives during the holidays. Boxes may be set up at various businesses around town for consumers to drop off toys. Toys may be new or gently used, depending upon the organization’s preferences. Christmas trees may also be set up at various businesses with the wish lists of those in need. Whether you drop off some toys or pick up the name of a child in need and purchase the items on their list, you will help make the holiday magical. Donate gifts for seniors Many organizations hold gift drives for seniors. The holidays can be a lonely time for seniors, especially those who are unable to leave their homes or have no family nearby. Blankets, slippers, large print books and other gifts can make a senior’s holiday. Find a gift drive for seniors near you and drop off a few gifts. Donate gifts for pets Animal shelters are also in need during the holidays. Because of the cold weather, many shelters are at full capacity. You can help by volunteering time at a local animal shelter or dropping off some much needed supplies. Many organizations will also hold pet gift drives. Just pick up the name of a homeless pet or animal shelter, purchase the items listed and drop them off where asked. Donate coats As temperatures fall, the need for coats, hats, scarves, gloves and blankets rises. Find out if anyone in your area is accepting winter apparel and blanket donations. If so, clean out your closet and donate any gently used items you no longer need. Or, shop around for some bargain winter apparel and blankets and donate them. Donate money For those short on time, monetary donations are ideal. Charitable organizations are always in need of funds. Make sure you select a reputable one that will put your money to good use. You can also donate any extra change you have to any of the coin boxes or donation pots set up around town. These are just some of the things you can do to help those in need this holiday season. Take a look around you. There are probably many other things you can do. Get involved and make a difference this season and yearround. Celebrate the Holidays with Chocolate! Let Aigners be a part of your families tradition Serving Queens since 1930 WE MAKE CHOCOLATES FOR ALL HOLIDAYS AND SPECIAL EVENTS, ALL CHOCOLATES ARE HOMEMADE HERE 103-02 Metropolitan Ave. Corner of 71st Rd. • 718-544 1850 www.aignerchocolates.com • Facebook.com/aignerchocolates


QC12102015
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