Dec
22
2016
Each year children all over Southern CA are opening their eyes to a morning of excitement as they come upon an ocean of gifts just for them on Christmas morning. Sadly, this isn’t the case for every child and many charities around California and the country to help fill the gap for those that are less fortunate.
Shelf Elf wants to help kids not only during the holidays but all year round.
“I am only here for a couple of weeks, sometimes a month each year, but there are SO MANY things we can do to make children across the world feel special all year round!”, she said in a recent interview at midnight with our Director. “Maybe we can tell everyone to help AFTER Christmas?”.
Great idea Snowflake. Good thinking.
So, we thought we would spread the word – if the little princes and princesses in your life get too many gifts this year and you feel you can spread the love a little more through the end of the year into 2017, how about donating some of your child’s Christmas or holiday gifts to charity AFTER Christmas? Toys are needed all year round for kids in need – sadly as the calendar page turns, the need just doesn’t disappear.
have a chat with your little one in terms they can understand about the excitement they will give another child with their generosity. Start with just one gift. Something small. Slowly build up each Christmas and birthday. Tell them about the impact they are making. Help them feel the pride in what they are doing. Next thing you know, they donate all their birthday gifts one year or will throw a Kindness Party.
Here are some ideas Snowflake gave us to share with all of you on anywhere in the country you can donate gifts after the gift giving is done!
Places to donate:
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Women’s Shelters: Although these are hard to find many churches and non-profits can accept your donations and give directly to the shelter. Many women leave with nothing other than their children and some clothes to these shelters. Toys are certainly welcome to keep their minds off leaving their home.
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Fire stations: Firemen keep toys on hand for calls when there is a crisis. Stuffed toys (small ones are best) and other items are always welcome.
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Orphanages: Although they get a lot of toys as well during the holidays they don’t receive as many as hospitals do during the holidays
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Homeless shelters: Food, clothing and shelter are always top priorities however toys are welcome for those that come in children as well
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Churches: Many churches are safe havens for those in crisis.
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Programs or non-profits that travel with food and toys for children. Africa, South America, and many other areas of the world that have outreach programs just for their residents.
