The holiday season is the idyllic time to provide for the local community. Here are ways to make a difference during the final days of 2020.
Sharing Tree
Since 1981, the Sharing Tree in Oklahoma City has served economically struggling families by providing items ranging from Christmas gifts to school supplies. Rebranded from their original name, The Christmas Connection, this year-round nonprofit plans to collect new or barely-used clothing, household items, and children’s toys for their no-cost store. For more information on the drop-off location or a list of much-needed items, visit the Sharing Tree website.
Toys for Tots OKC
Ask any parent and they’ll say the spirit of Christmas lies within a child’s smile after receiving a new toy. Toys for Tots OKC is asking all volunteers to take part in the giving season by donating new, unwrapped toys to give to children in need. Donations can be dropped off at a number of local businesses throughout the metro area. Another way to give back is to donate funds directly to Toys for Tots for a one-time or recurring payment. Additional information about the nonprofit organization’s holiday efforts and drop-off locations can be found on the Toys for Tots website.
The Children’s Center
This holiday season, the Children’s Center invites you to become a Christmas Hero. People can provide a festive experience for patients who cannot be home with their family and friends by donating funds or purchasing gifts from the organization’s wish list. Donations received at the facility will be wrapped and delivered to the children during their Christmas party. To learn how to be a Christmas Hero (cape not included), visit The Children’s Center website.
TEEM
The Education and Employment Ministry, TEEM for short, is an interfaith, nonprofit operating on the mission of ending the cycle of incarceration and poverty in Oklahoma. During their annual toy drive, officials are collecting new toys for children with incarcerated parents through donations and wish-list purchases, located on their website. Their information also provides age groups and gift suggestions for all age groups. Any further details on donations or volunteer efforts can be located on the TEEM website.
City Rescue Mission
Christmas comes in all shapes and sizes, even a box. At City Rescue Mission — a nonprofit dedicated to providing shelter, educational and vocational resources for the homeless — they are calling for donations to go inside their Christmas-in-a-Box. These boxed items can include anything from toys, decorations and desserts to ensure everyone celebrates the holidays. Donations of unwrapped and new toys are needed for children ages birth to 18-years-old by Dec. 11. Visit their website here to figure out how you can contribute.
