Charities That Can Help YOU! Salvation Army Giving Tree Angel Tree Toy for Tots and United Way

I wrote a Hub about charities quite awhile ago. I was surprised with the comments from people needing help. People so desperate that they would leave their personal email in hopes that someone, anyone would lend them a hand. So I have decided to write this article to help those people out. I wish I had the money to assist you myself, but money is certainly something I lack as well. So, please, if you need some help for the Holidays, put your pride aside and look into my suggestions.

Here is a comment left on my other page.

Hello all. :) we are a military family on an extremely tight budget. My husband is currently underway and does not know that we cannot afford to give our 10 month old son a first Christmas. After bills we hardly have enough to cover diapers, much less food for ourselves...as long as our son has what he needs, we are happy. That being said, it humbles me to even ask for any assistance, but it would be greatly appreciated if anyone could help us....whether it be an article of clothing for him, diapering needs, etc. I am grateful for all that we have, but it will break my heart if he doesn't get to experience his first Christmas.

The Dollar Store

First off, I want to tell you that if your buying wipes, bottles and bibs at the 'regular' stores, you are paying too much and could really save yourself some money. The Dollar Store has wipes that are just as good as the brand names, lotions, diaper rash cream, powder, bottles, onesies, bibs as well as baby dishes. Some even carry diapers and baby food. I also need you to know that the Dollar Store has toys. I have bought all of my daughters stocking stuffers there. They feature Cars merchandise such as Lightening McQueen and Mater cars, coloring books, crayons, stuffed characters and more. They have a lot of Nascar inventory, barbie dolls, stuffed animals and a variety of different things depending on the store.

Make sure it is a 'Dollar Store,' not a Family Dollar or other misleading named stores. Last year my daughter had 5 gifts to open and it cost me $5.00. Was it the barbie dream house I wanted to give? No. But in her eyes it was Christmas, and a gift given from the heart not the pocket book.

As for being in the Military and needing help. Toys For Tots is actually affiliated with the Marines. If you were to contact the Toys for Tots web page or local Marine recruiting office they can give you information about becoming a recipient of their services. You DO NOT need to be a military family to receive services.

Also, ask other military families! Knowing you are on a tight budget with a military income, you are certainly not the only one in this situation. If you reach out to others, they will certainly let you know of services they use or resources available.

I found a great website that helps with military families and their needs. I provided the link to your right. It is called AidPage. It can really help you and other military families with fulfilling the comforts of home.

The last few years, Christmas for my 3 daughters ages 9, 12 and 16 and my grandson 3, has been pretty much non existant. This year is so much worse. None of the children will have anything under the tree unless I am able to get a little help from someone. If I can atleast have one small gift for each child under the tree, that would be the best christmas ever.

Angel Tree

The Salvation Army collaborates with county social workers to determine which families would benefit from the angel trees. Eligible families submit applications for their children to make a list of what they would like for Christmas. I urge anyone that is need of gifts this year to contact the Salvation Army and get placed for a gift.

The Giving Tree

Numerous churches and businesses such as Hospitals, banks and other agencies use the concept of the Angel Tree. Simply by speaking with the manager or church official, you can apply to be the recipient of a gift donated by the community. Usually the way it works is to apply with the manager, make a list of things needed and for what age and sex. You can also ask for food, gas cards, or household needs such as blankets also. People enter the business or church and pick an angel off the tree with the need on it. They will purchase the item and return it to the bearer of the tree. The gift is then given to you.



Ever since you were little, I'm sure you asked to donate to the United Way. Well, now that you find yourself in a situation of need, there is no better place to turn. I have enclosed a link for the United Way and if you click the State you are in it will direct you to your local agency. The United Way can help you with food, shelter and gifts. And in some cases, cash assistance.

I realize with the economy the way it is that we are all suffering. We are tightening our wallets and trying to adjust the best we can. If you need help, please take the suggestions I have made.

If you are looking to donate, please read this Hub.

No matter what, don't give up hope and enjoy the Holiday for what it intended to be about.

Love and appreciation.

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.