Amidst the greed of Black Friday that usurped Thanksgiving and gleaming eyes of kids awaiting their gifts on Christmas Day, it is important to remember that not everyone is able to celebrate with ample food or even gifts. Even more so in 2025 as prices skyrocket and many families were without SNAP benefits for so long and face that reality again.

I donate to multiple groups during the holiday season. Some of these opportunities come at the school I teach at, where the student leadership groups organize a Compassion Drive for the local food shelf. When I was the National Honors Society Advisor we focused on many of the personal items that often are overlooked, such as toothpaste and toilet paper. In my own town, I also donate kids’ clothes at my church’s Baby Blanket ministry, which provides mothers and kids with clothing, diapers and other expenses that come from being a parent.

While I try to focus mostly on my local areas for needs, I do like to buy a toy to give to Toys for Tots too! I have to admit; I love going and shopping in the toy department. It’s nostalgic to remember how excited I used to get about presents under the tree for me. The great aspect of Toys for Tots is they do keep donations local to the general area.

I encourage all families to at least buy an extra toy with their own kids to give to Toys for Tots. It is a lesson in the true meaning of giving and important generational skill to pass on. When I was young, my family would always adopt a family through the county and enjoy buying clothes, toys, and a meal for the family to receive in time for the holidays. Through that experience I learned that joy of giving to others rather than receiving and spreading holiday cheer where it is often most needed.