Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the presents and holiday plans that we forget there are people who don’t have these luxuries. That’s why we rounded up a few ways for you to give back, and even if you provide just one smile this season, you’ve done your part.

Light of Life Rescue Mission

Mission

As a ministry of Jesus Christ, Light of Life will provide a home for the homeless and food for the hungry, and will build disciples for the Kingdom of God among the poor, addicted, abused and needy.

Here’s where you come in

Gifts in Honor

Your gift will give the men, women and children served at Light of Life a meal, shelter, care, spiritual nurturing and a chance for hope and a new life! Once Light of Life receives your gift, they will send a card to the honoree or family acknowledging your gift.

Physical Goods

Anything helps when someone is in need. You’ll find a list of accepted items on the website, and are asked to send an e-mail to Emily at erabatin@lightoflife.org to arrange a time to drop off your items.

Donation

Your donation helps…

• Complete meals
• Safe shelter
• Recovery programs
• Spiritual discipleship

You can easily donate online by selecting a payment method!

Toys for Tots

Mission

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

Here’s where you come in

There are so many ways to donate to Toys for tots…here are just a few!

Donate

Donate an amount of your choice to the foundation that will be used to purchase gifts for children less fortunate. You can pay easily online by clicking here.

Find a Local Drop-Off

Inquire about the nearest location by you, and take your donated toys to make a child’s day.

Host an Event

If you really want to be proactive, host a Toys for Tots event at your home, office or other venue and collect toys for Toys for Tots. You can even volunteer at the local warehouse!

Treasures for Children by The Salvation Army

Mission

Doing the most good, for the most people, in the most need.

The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania’s Treasures for Children program provides toys for more than 65,000 children, over 25,000 of them in Allegheny County.

Here’s where you come in

Donate

You can make a charitable donation or donate a toy to a child in need. The website provides a list of suggested toys if you’re having trouble coming up with some!

Volunteer

Help the Salvation Army sort and distribute toys! Start by filling out a volunteer form here.

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If you’re looking for a charity in the Pittsburgh area that you didn’t find here, check out Pittsburgh Cares. It provides a search engine to find nearby volunteer opportunities so you can give back and get involved this season!