Give Love on this Holiday Season

By Alivia Wenze, Senior

December is the most exciting time of year, from the presents, to the lights, and the unforgettable Christmas tree. I know many of us are thinking about the gifts we may get or the big meal we may eat. These festivities are lovely, but there is more to the holiday season. Many of us have lost sight of the true meaning of the season, which is to give back to people who are less fortunate.

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Not everyone is fortunate to have the luxuries we take for granted like a safe home, plenty of food, and loving family. During this holiday season, it is crucial to think about others because it is always better to give than receive. Throughout the year, especially during the holidays, I try to help any way I can by contributing back to my community. Since Thanksgiving, I have been going to the inner-city to feed the homeless. Sometimes I even provide them a few dollars and some soap to make their day a little easier. Additionally, I have donated presents to kids whose parents could not afford gifts for them this year. It is fulfilling for me to see the smiles on the people's faces that I help.
During this season I encourage everyone to help people who are less fortunate. There are various ways to give back to the community. Here is just a start:

• Donating time at a soup kitchen- check out this website: Feeding South Florida, Camillus House
• Finding an organization that helps feed the homeless: Miami Rescue Mission
• ​Donating toys: Miami Rescue Mission, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

​The smallest thing you do for someone else can make the biggest difference to that person. Even in your local community, many people have nothing or no one to depend on in the holiday season. That's why it is essential that we donate cheerfully with our hearts open.
In this holiday season, appreciate everything you have because many people don’t have anything. Remember, the holiday season is not all about receiving; it’s about giving to the people who are less fortunate. Today, think about how you can contribute and bring joy to someone who needs it.

May your holidays be full of cheer!

Resources:
Feeding South Florida:
https://feedingsouthflorida.org/agencies/find-an-agency/categories/soup-kitchen

Miami Rescue Mission:
https://my.miamirescuemission.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=%2Bfeeding%20%2Bhomeless&utm_campaign=paid&gclid=CjwKCAiA9efgBRAYEiwAUT-jtNz5j4BpqCg9sQjBI-4L6sONBabautGQBLz92JuVY5hmuDl1vAWJKxoCPF4QAvD_BwE

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital:
https://www.nicklauschildrens.org/news-and-events/events/gift-and-toy-donations
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Camillus House:
https://www.camillus.org/services/we-re-here-to-help/#.XBp4Ry2ZNQI