Seven Ways To Donate This Holiday Season In The Albany Area

Donating during the usually cold holiday season can bring special warmth to you.

The holiday season is almost here, and it means most people will be scrambling from store to store, getting gifts for the people on your lists.

What about the people that are not on your list? I’m not talking about the less fortunate. With the economy the way it is, it seems many more people will need outside help. There are still many people still haven't recuperated from Hurricane Irene, and all of the severe weather that devastated entire communities. Hopefully this is where you can help out.

7) Capital City Rescue Mission

The Capital City Rescue Mission is in downtown Albany, and almost every city has a city mission that could use your help.

6) Regional Food of Northeastern New York

The Regional Food Bank can make a monetary donation go a long way.

5) Hannaford “Helping Hands” box

This is an easy one, because you can get the “Helping Hand Box” while you’re shopping and just add the $10 dollars to your grocery total.

4) Salvation Army Red Kettle

You see them at the entrance to almost every store – The bell ringers with the Salvation Army Red Kettle. Drop some extra pocket change as you go in, or as you’re leaving the store.

3) The Marine Corps “Toys For Tots”

This is one of my favorites. Donating a new, unwrapped toy for less fortunate children through the Toys For Tots program.

2) Make-A-Wish

Make-A-Wish has given hope, strength and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

1) GNA’s Pennies From Heaven

Each year, GNA collects money for Pennies From Heaven, and that money goes to at least 11 different Albany Area children’s charities.

You don’t need to donate a lot of money, but every little bit helps. I know there are many more local charities that need help. Let us know what they are.