New York (WCBS 880) -- With the cold weather upon us and the holiday season already under way, we wanted to let people know how they could give back to those who are less fortunate. Below you will find some ideas of how you can volunteer your time or make donations to help those in need.
1. UNICEF:
Twenty-five thousand children die everyday for reasons we can prevent. This holiday season, give a gift that really counts. With UNICEF inspired gifts, you can buy a child a warm blanket, lifesaving vaccines, high-protein biscuits and more. Make helping a child your holiday gift to friends and family.
2. New York Cares Winter Wishes Program
New York Cares provides gifts for underpriveleged children through donations from the public. You can send new, unwrapped toys to:
New York Cares Winter Wishes Program
214 W. 29th Street, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10001
3. New York Cares Coat Drive
The New York Cares program also organizes coat drives for those in need during the winter season. You can donate a coat, money, or organize a coat drive of your own. For more information click here.
4. Metropolitan Hospital Center's Pediatric Holiday Party
On December 20, 2008, Metropolitan Hospital Center will host a Pediatric Holiday Party.
Clowns, performers and face painters are needed to entertain the children. A special guest dressed in red and white will join the fun and bring presents to the children. Volunteers should be dressed for the holiday in red, white and green or in costumes. For more information contact Linda Takourian at (212) 423-6894.
5. Volunteer with the ASPCA
While there is no specific holiday volunteer opportunities, the ASPCA is always in need of volunteers. With the cold weather coming there is no better time to help out our furry friends.
6. The Bowery Mission
The Bowery Mission, located at 132 Madison Avenue, has been providing help for those in need since 1879. They provide clothing, shelter and meals for men, women and children of all ages and are always in need of volunteers, especially around the holidays when the weather turns cold. Click here for more information.
7. Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter
This Upper East Side shelter needs volunteers to help cook and serve a holiday meal on the 26th as well as people to help decorate. They are even looking for an experienced piano tuner!
8. The New York City Coalition Against Hunger
Started in 1983, the Coalition Against Hunger feeds the city's homeless. They have a volunteer matching system to help you find the best way to help this holiday season. Click here to find out more.
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