Each holiday season we’re reminded how lucky we are. We live in an amazing country that affords us many opportunities and luxuries. While we take this time to remember our friends and family with gifts and celebrations, let’s not forget those that are less fortunate than ourselves. There are many opportunities to volunteer, donate, and give back this holiday season. We’ve rounded up six great ways to spread holiday cheer in this Christmas season.

STOCKINGS FOR SENIORS: Donate a gift for a home-bound senior with the Senior Resource Center’s Stockings for Seniors gift drive. Each stocking tag lists one gift for a local senior, and can be found at the New Hanover County Government Center in the atrium, K&W Cafeteria, David’s Deli, and the Chick-fil-A locations at Mayfaire and on Market Street. Gifts can be brought to any of these locations by Dec. 8. For more information, call (910) 798-6485.

SANTA’S ELVES: Come help wrap presents at Santa’s Village Annex at Mayfaire, assist in making wishes come true by helping at the Santa’s letter writing table. Funds raised go to area non profits, including Big Buddy, Make A Wish, Kids Voting and Teen Court (and more). Dates are flexible. They can work with your schedule!

More Info and to Sign Up

SANTA’S VILLAGE ASSISTANCE: Come out and help kids make Christmas Crafts, get to see Santa and hear Christmas Stories at Mayfaire’s Santa’s Village. Dates are flexible. They can work with your schedule!

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VOLUNTEER AT THE CENTER OF HOPE: The Salvation Army Center of Hope needs you and your great personality. Over 100 meals are served EVERY day. Help us prepare and/or serve the meals. Our staff chief is there to guide and help so there is no pressure, you only need to come with your awesome giving attitude. Everyone is grateful for your friendly smiles and a chance to talk. Many hands make light work for the clean up afterwards. See you there! Dates are flexible. They can work with your schedule!

More Info and to Sign Up

WRAP UP YOUR HOPES & DREAMS: The Domestic Violence Shelter is looking for unwrapped toys or gift cards to brighten the Christmas for a family that’s had a rough go of it. There are two drop off sites: Red Robin at Mayfaire Town Center, and the Open Gate (2901 Market St.). Gifts and gift cards are being taken now through Christmas Eve.

January 3rd beginning at 9am. Open to all comers who would like to wrap up the holiday season at the aquarium. Lower Cape Fear Hospice is in need of a large number of volunteers as there are nearly 50 Christmas trees to undecorate. Contact Chris Scott at (910) 796-7927 or [email protected] for more information.

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