Fortunately, submerged in family and friends, get togethers, and time away from work, the holiday season is a very popular time to want to give back. And in New York City, there is a dire need for communities that are struggling, and ample ways to either volunteer your time or donate a monetary amount or items to help a non-profit organization.

 

So in the spirit of donating, ahead are some of our favorite causes and ways to financially support these wonderful establishments.

 

Feeding NYC

With over 21 years of business, Feeding NYC has delivered over 90,000 boxes with ingredients to families for Thanksgiving dinner. They rely on a ton of corporate sponsors and the generosity of New York residents. You can help finance one of the many dinner boxes or attend a box packing event.

 

Donate to Feeding NYC here

 

 

NYC Books Through Bars

With an aim to help incarcerated men and women through the help of gently used paperback books, you can donate money, time, books, and more through their well curated wish list.

 

Donate to Books Through Bars here

 

 

New York Cares Coat Drive

If you have spent any time in a climate that actually has winter, you know how cold it gets in New York City come end of November, making it no better time to donate gently used and clean coats you no longer need. Luckily, New York Cares Coat Drive has multiple drop-off locations through the city where you can dispose of your coats. If you don’t have a coat to spare but still want to help, you can text 41444 to send a $20 donation (the cost of one coat).

 

Donate to NYC Cares here

 

 

The Bowery Mission

Serving the poor and homeless since 1870, The Bowery Mission is most famous for their annual Thanksgiving feast where they serve nourishing meals and compassionate service. They were also one of the few organizations that stayed open throughout the pandemic. In 2020 alone, they provided 104,000 nights of shelter, 429,500 meals, and 27,600 articles of clothing.

 

Donate to The Bowery Mission here

 

 

Housing Works

Since 1990, Housing Works has been helping homeless New Yorkers who are living with HIV or AIDS. Started by veterans, they operate tons of thrift shops throughout the city where you can donate money, furniture, clothing, and books. All proceeds go to their mission.

 

Donate to Housing Works here

 

 

GrowNYC

On a mission to better the recycling initiatives in New York City, GrowNYC establishes community gardens in neighborhoods in need. You can volunteer time to help upkeep the gardens or donate money.

 

Donate to GrowNYC here

 

 

The Robin Hood Foundation

Known as the largest poverty-fighting organization, all donations no matter how big or small, help to fund the Robin Hood Foundation‘s programs like early childhood education, meal packaging, and job training.

 

Donate to The Robin Hood Foundation here

 

 

There are so many people and communities to donate to year-round, but especially this holiday season. For example, here are some bail funds you can help out.