Lend A Helping Hand

November has many of us counting our blessings and reflecting on the people and things we are most grateful for. What better way to express our thankfulness than to share the love with others in our communities? Today we are focusing on charitable giving most needed in southern Ohio and ways to include your kids too.

Food Banks & Pantries

One of the most basic human needs is still difficult to meet by many families and individuals in the Greater Cincinnati area. Consider donating financially or volunteering with the Freestore Foodbank or another charity in your neighborhood. Many local churches host food pantries and report they are in extra need of food at this time of year, and personal hygiene items are always of critical need as they are not something most people think to donate regularly. Load up your little ones and take a trip to the grocery store. Encourage your kids to pick out canned goods, non-perishable food items, as well as toilet paper and soap. Even the seemingly simple act of allowing your children to choose which items to donate and place into the shopping cart is a way to foster direct involvement in community service.

Not sure which items are the best to buy? This is a great list to refer to.

School Supplies & Lunches

If you have school age kids, chances are you've wondered what sort of gift your child's teacher wants most. A Starbucks gift card with a handwritten note from both you and your child is a thoughtful gift. Consider also that teachers often spend their own money purchasing needed supplies for their classrooms. You can ask your child's teacher(s) or the school's PTO what items are most needed. Host a mid-year school supply drive when many classroom resources begin to run low.

A great way to help out other families within your local school district is to give the school a call and offer to pay towards outstanding lunch accounts and student fees. Children cannot fill their minds if they first have not been able to fill their bellies.

Senior Citizens

Clermont Senior Services has a variety of ways to volunteer. These are great ways to support the senior citizens in your own community too. Adopt a senior at Christmastime, or volunteer as a personal shopper anytime through the year and run errands for a senior unable to head out to the pharmacy or store.

Looking for more great ideas for community service involving your kids? Check out our Parenting Littles board on Pinterest!