With International Volunteer Day around the corner and winter fast approaching, this time of year is often recognised as the season of goodwill and charity. Soon enough, we will all be hearing Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” on the radio and in supermarkets across many Western countries, reminding us to feed the world.
There are many ways for us each to help the vulnerable over the coming months. Here are a few ideas:
Volunteering with your local charity
Depending on where you live, there might be soup kitchens near you that serve meals to families in need, especially during the cold months in the northern hemisphere. Organised by local and international charities, such as the Red Cross and Salvation Army, they often seek volunteers to help cook and serve hot and healthy meals.
Donating food to the vulnerable
Instead of cooked meals, some organisations provide food to those who may not be able to afford their own. Donating non-perishable food, like canned food and spaghetti, can go a long way for families living under the poverty line. Look out for your local food banks or community outreach organisations to see what foods they accept and how you can help.
Donating gifts
If you would prefer to donate gifts or money, then look for organisations accepting gift donations! Child Fund and Action Aid are some of many who take money and gift donations for children living in poverty. Brighten up a child’s day and future by donating in this way!
But wintertime is not the only time to make a difference. An estimated 689 million people worldwide live in extreme poverty all year round. One of the most impactful ways to help is to join our fight against extreme poverty by becoming a ONE Youth Ambassador. If you’re between 18 and 30 years old, based in Europe, and want to take a more active step in creating meaningful global change, then we want to hear from you.
Find out more about how you can make a difference tackling global poverty as a ONE Youth Ambassador.
Laura Guthrie is a Youth Ambassador in Belgium.
