Collect food and donate it to food banks. It is best to collect food that does not spoil quickly. Canned food, peanut butter and oats are some of the best options. There are a surprising number of people who go hungry this time of year. Donating food can help them out. Most local churches take donations and give them to families in need.

Donate supplies to animal shelters. Shelters can always use extra supplies for the animals, a few good ideas of things to donate are blankets, food and toys. They sometimes have a wishlist of things they could use. Calling and asking what items they need is also another good option.

Gather clothes that have not been worn in a while and donate them. This time of year coats, hats, gloves, and scarfs are especially needed. The Salvation Army, Goodwill and many other places take clothes donations.

Donate toys to less fortunate children. As the holidays approach some families struggle to get their kids presents. Churches, schools and local children shelters all take donations. Donating toys can make a big difference in a child’s life.

During the holidays, some people struggle to make ends meet. When going to restaurants always leave an appropriate tip. Tips can really help someone out when they are struggling and tipping is the right thing to do.