This week, many of us will be turning on our furnaces, basting turkey, preparing cranberry sauce, mashing potatoes and baking stuffing.

Many will be sitting down for large, boisterous meals this Thursday. Before we sit down and enjoy, we should take a small amount of time to think of the less fortunate. Think about those who would love to have what we have, a warm meal, a cozy place or an embracing home.

Several charities are in need this season. Millions of dollars have been sent to aid the relief efforts in New York City. We should relinquish some thought for those close to home and in need. There are many opportunities to do good this holiday season. As colder weather arrives, there is a need for blankets and heaters.

The smiles on the faces of those you help, the glisten of joy in the eyes of children over a game of football or a warm meal is a testament to the giving spirit. Warm hearts and an open mind lead to a wonderful experience. Open up and give. Give time, give food, give what you can.

Money helps, but volunteering your time and dedicating an open ear for a few hours is just as helpful.

Above all, remember that Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what you have and giving to those who have less.

No gift is too small, no gift goes unnoticed

How to help:

Second Harvest feeds thousands of low-income people weekly thanks to gifts of food, money and time. Second Harvest has several opportunities available for volunteers. Volunteer activities range from answering phone calls, to sorting food, to special project operations. Call 408-266-8866 for more information.

Volunteer Exchange has several volunteer opportunities available during the Holiday season. Activities range from cooking, toy sorters, administrative assistants, crowd control/security, data entry, warehouse work, drivers, entertainers, gift wrappers and more. Call 408-247-1126 for more information.

Food kitchen: Serve a meal to the seniors at the Lytton Gardens Community Housing for seniors in Palo Alto.

Call 650-617-7310 for more information.

City Team Ministries is a Christian non-profit organization serving the poor and needy in cities around the world. In San Jose, the organization provides hot meals, safe shelters, showers and clean clothing to the city’s homeless population. Contact a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected] for more information.

Web sites:
www.volunteerexchange.org
www.secondharvestsjca.org
www.salvationarmy.org
www.volunteerinfo.org