Volunteer Voice
Is it the Holidays yet?
You may have noticed holiday decorations in some of your stores, and found yourself saying, “I remember when we did not see holiday décor until after Thanksgiving.” Our world seems smaller and time seems to go faster as we approach the holidays, and many of us like to have our special gift stash that we refill throughout the year. Just as we like to be prepared, there are many agencies in our area that are now working on projects to help those in need for the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Now is not too early to ask how you can help.
If you want to help someone at Thanksgiving, consider one of these organizations: Trinity United Methodist Church (352-376-6615, ext137); Salvation Army (352-376-1743, ext 308); High Springs Social Services/Catholic Charities (386-454-1000); Catholic Charities (352-372-0294); Gainesville Community Ministry (352-372-8162); Bradford Ecumenical Ministry (904-964-2459); Sardis Baptist Church (386-496-3685); Bread of the Mighty Food Bank (352-336-0839); Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office (352-463-6048); Waldo Citizen Center (352-468-2336); St. Francis House (352-378-9079) and Fire of God Ministries (352-375-2020). Each of these agencies needs volunteers.0
If you want to put the happy in Happy Holidays, consider sponsoring a bike with a $50 donation to the Junior League Thrift Shop (352-376-3805) or donating to Toys for Tots (352-495-3443). The Interfaith Hospitality Network (352-378-2030) is looking for new toys or gift cards; Peaceful Paths “Adopt a Family” (352-377-5690) and Arbor House and Mom’s Place are looking for items for infants and their moms (352-371-2229).
You can help the agency of your choice through food donations, gift cards, basket assembly, or, in some cases, meal preparation for Thanksgiving or Christmas. To find out what they need, all you have to do is call.
For more information on volunteer opportunities please contact Pat Bellis at pjbellis@havenhospice.org.