During the holidays, many people enjoy receiving gifts from friends and family, but may overlook the opportunity the holiday season offers to give back to the community through acts of kindness and service.​​ To the right are opportunities through which people can support the community.

Give essentials to shelters

Help animals by donating to Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter, which is in need of items including wet and dry cat and dog food, cleaning supplies and animal beds. More items are listed on the shelter’s website. Donated items can be dropped off at the shelter during store hours or left outside the gate. 

Write warm words for cold months

Gifting homemade creations can be just as meaningful as volunteer work. Write cards with uplifting words and deliver them to a local retirement home. Decorate the card with a holiday theme and include a joke, riddle or drawing. 

Donate food locally

The Northfield Township Food Pantry, which provides meals to families in the community, is requesting certain food items on its website. These items can be dropped off at the pantry during store hours or in bins outside the pantry. Items are also listed on the Amazon list located on the website and can be purchased from there.

Keep fire hydrants clear of snow

Giving back does not have to involve physical gifts. During the winter season, firefighters shovel snow around nearby fire hydrants. To save firefighters’ time, shovel snow surrounding  the fire hydrants near you. 

Sources: Gayle Curcio, community outreach coordinator for Northfield Township; Chanel Beer, shelter technician for Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter; David Schweihs, Deputy Chief of the Northbrook Fire Department.