No matter the time of year, there is always a need for donations. Donations become essential during the cold seasons. As the weather gets colder, people less fortunate are in need of more layers to keep warm, a cozy haven to live in and calorie-dense foods. These items are commonly donated, however there are four more desperately needed things.
-
Donate a Car
For the less fortunate, transportation is hard to come by. Bikes are a great avenue in terms of donation. Although, during the winter months, it’s hard to find someone willing to ride in the depths of icy cold snow or on a slick sidewalk. Newgate School, a non-profit automotive technical school, uses donated vehicles for underprivileged adults to study auto body and mechanics.
In addition to students paying no tuition, vehicles are given to single moms to use as transportation to work and childcare for their kids. The benefits are two-fold: students fix up vehicles, and sell them at low prices to raise money to help keep the school running. In turn, they’re able to repair other cars for their “Wheels for Women” program. You can learn more about the statistics of the program from Neal St. Anthony’s piece on the Star Tribune.
-
Household Gear
Household items are also a rare necessity for those seeking aid. Many don’t think of cleaning items as an appropriate contribution, but cleanliness is essential for health and wellness. Cleaning aids as well as first aid kits are hard to come by, especially for those who are without a home. And lamps, tables, chairs and other furniture items go a long way.
-
Offer Your Space
Many non-profit organizations and the unaided need a place to go to work quietly, free of charge. Most office buildings, churches and car garages provide the room to allow people to congregate, plan, help and teach one another. Access to such spaces can give others the opportunity to improve their lives. Skills can be taught, meals can be exchanged, help can be provided for all those who contribute.
-
Technology
Today’s technology has grown to all depths of the world, connecting people with family and friends. Even with the oldest electronics, this is made possible. Laptops and other computers allow kids, teens and college students to study appropriately. Adults, too, can find use of computers to find jobs and create resumes.
When thinking about what you can give back, think about what might not as commonly donated and give back what you can.