I know it’s cliché to say how blessed we all are, but I’m truly thankful for the simple things. Maybe it’s old age setting in, but I’m so very fortunate to have a healthy family, a roof over my head, food in my belly, and family nearby.
But, there are some in our community who are struggling this holiday season and it’s the perfect time to help spread some holiday cheer. I’m sharing some of my favorite places to donate to and volunteering opportunities in Tampa Bay.
Volunteering Opportunities in Tampa Bay
Kids Helping Kids Pasco County – https://www.facebook.com/KidsHelpingKidsPasco/
Monthly, kids are encouraged to create change in the community by participating in acts of kindness. Click on the link to learn about what event is happening this month and get your kids involved.
St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital – give2stjoeskids.org
New toys and necessities are greatly appreciated for infants to teenagers at St Joseph’s Children Hospital. They also accept donations year-round. Simply drop them off at the information desk inside of the hospital.
John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital – hopkinsallchildrens.org
Like St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital accepts new, unused toys.
Ronald McDonald House – rmhctampabay.org/other-ways
Ronald McDonald Houses of Tampa Bay hosts resident families whose children are undergoing treatment. Families are often in need of new gifts for children, gift cards, pantry items, books, and puzzles.
The Spring of Tampa Bay – thespring.org
Year-round, The Spring of Tampa Bay supports domestic violence survivors and their families. Survivors choose items in the thrift store to help them rebuild their lives. Donations should be new toys (no stuffed animals), gently used and new clothing for kids and adults.
Mary Lee’s House – maryleeshouse.org
Abused and neglected children receive help through a collaboration between government, private agencies, and Mary Lee’s House. They accept donations of new toys, baby items, books and sporting equipment year-round.
Joseph’s House – http://jhbv.org/
Joseph’s House in Brooksville primarily provides food and essentials to those going through difficult times. Pantry staples and toys for all ages are greatly appreciated.
Local Animal Shelters
Our local animal shelters are always full this time of year. I wish I could adopt all of the animals. Local shelters are need of food, toys, blankets, beds, and towels.
- Pasco Animal Services – https://www.pascocountyfl.net/408/Animal-Services
- Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center – https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/locations/pet-resource-center
- Pinellas County Animal Services – http://www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices/
Additional Ways to Give Back to our Community
Grab a few friends and family members, and sing carols to lonely seniors in assisted living facilities. Volunteer at local soup kitchens. Donate to Toys for Tots and Metropolitan Ministries. The volunteering opportunities are endless!
