Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season

1. Support Local Shelters

• Adopt a Pet or Foster Temporarily: Many animal shelters like Kind Keeper Animal Rescue and All4Paws are in need of fosters during the holidays. If adoption isn’t an option, fostering can be a great way to help.
• Donate Supplies or Money: Call a local shelter to see what they need—often blankets, food, toys, or cleaning supplies are in high demand.
• Volunteer Your Time: Shelters often need help with tasks like cleaning, feeding, or spending time with animals, especially during busy holiday seasons.

2. Support Area Food Banks and Pantries

• Lowcountry Food Bank: Donate non-perishable food items or make a financial donation to support families struggling with food insecurity. Even a small monetary donation can help feed multiple families.
• Community Fridges: Contribute to a local community fridge in the area with snacks, canned goods, or fresh produce for those in need. Look for community fridges at local businesses or community centers.
• Clothing Donations for the Winter: Donate coats, scarves, gloves, and blankets to shelters like Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach, which distributes these items to people in need.

3. Spread Holiday Cheer with Random Acts of Kindness

• Pay It Forward at Local Cafés or Shops: Brighten someone’s day by covering their coffee, meal, or groceries. Supporting small businesses while spreading kindness is a win-win!
• Gift Giving: Host or join a White Elephant gift exchange with friends and family, with each person bringing an item from a local artisan or donating to a cause as part of the fun.

4. Support Local Veterans

• Donations to Veterans Welcome Home and Resource Center: Located in Little River, this center serves local veterans with resources for housing, employment, and support. Donations help provide essentials like toiletries, clothing, and emergency housing.
• Volunteer with Veteran Services: Contact organizations in Myrtle Beach to see if you can help veterans with daily tasks, especially for those who may be without family during the holidays.

5. Sponsor a Family or Child

• Angel Trees and Gift Drives: Many local churches, schools, or businesses have Angel Tree programs where you can buy specific gifts for children or families in need.
• Donate to The Salvation Army of Horry County: Your contributions to their holiday fund help provide meals, shelter, and gifts for families in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas who need extra support.

6. Give the Gift of Time

• Visit Nursing Homes in the Myrtle Beach Area: Many nursing homes, such as Brightwater or NHC Healthcare, would appreciate volunteers spreading holiday cheer. Consider bringing along holiday cards, decorations, or even a musical performance!
• Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive: If you’re connected to local businesses or clubs, you could organize a holiday fundraiser for a cause you’re passionate about, such as a no-kill animal shelter or a community clinic.
• Volunteer for Local Holiday Events: Look for community events or meal services where you can serve, decorate, or simply share in the holiday spirit with others.

These are just a few ideas, and there are countless ways to help. Giving back doesn’t have to be grand to make an impact—it’s the thought and care that count.