Worthy charities
4. The Humane Society of Canada
Don't forget the animals. Make a donation to help in the animal relief efforts in areas shattered by the hurricanes. Consider adopting a cuddly dog or cat. It's certainly a gift that keeps on giving — for yourself or someone you know who really wants a pet and is committed to owning one.
Visit www.humanesociety.com for more information.
5. The United Way
Contact your local United Way if you would like to give a monetary donation but do not have a specific charity in mind. United Ways across Canada distribute funding to a network of social and health service agencies that assist troubled youth, isolated seniors, support abused women and their children, and help homeless and disabled people as well as new immigrants.
For more information, visit www.unitedway.ca.
The Christmas spirit is a generous and giving one. Remember that every one of us has an angel inside and it's often the simple, heartfelt acts of kindness that register the most around the holidays. Jessica Bonney, a social worker at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto suggests it's important to "give the gift of time" and to create the gift of memories. Goodwill simply begins with selfless intentions. "It really is about pausing to consider the needs of others and finding small ways to meet them," Bonney says.
The benefits of giving to others are plenty. "For many of us, the holiday season has become a stressful and commercial experience," adds Bonney. "People feel as though they have lost the true spirit of the holidays — that of love, kindness and compassion. Getting involved in the lives of others, either through community involvement or personal acts of kindness, allows us to reconnect with the true spirit of the holiday season. Volunteering also causes us to reflect on the fortunes of our own lives and can lead to a renewed sense of appreciation."
