As you’re making your own holiday shopping lists, don’t forget about the wish lists from Virginia’s nonprofits. In the spirit of giving, incorporating supply drives and mini-fundraising campaigns within your personal networks is a great way to help check off the items on these lists.
We posted on social and asked our networks what they’d like to ask for this holiday season to help support their communities. Before you hit submit on that next Amazon card, consider adding an extra gift this season to a Virginia nonprofit. Here are some ideas to get you started.
The Doorways
The Doorways is a hospital hospitality house that provides lodging and support services for patients and their families who have to travel to Richmond for life-saving medical care. From household products to food items to stock their pantry, The Doorways is always in need of items and goods to help guests feel more at home. See its Amazon Wishlist and donation page.
Sylvia’s Sisters
Helping to fight period poverty in Central Virginia (and beyond), Sylvia’s Sisters collects high-quality period products to help break the cycle of one in four girls missing school because of inadequate period supplies. Check out its donation page for more details.
Salvation Army of Central Virginia
You can’t talk about the holidays without talking about the Salvation Army. From the Richmond Christmas Mother to Angel Trees and Coats for Kids, there are so many different ways to give back and support this organization. Learn more about all the programs and partners of the Salvation Army of Central Virginia.
Northern Virginia Family Service
Since 1924, NVFS has offered family resources and support to ensure that everyone maximizes their potential and fully contributes to a thriving community. It offers a wide variety of services, which means there’s a wide variety of needs. Check out its holiday donation page.
REAL LIFE
REAL ((Recovery from Everyday Addictive Lifestyles) LIFE supports previously incarcerated individuals in their transition back into the community. During the holidays, it has Thanksgiving and Christmas meal boxes that are generated from community donations, and there are also giving trees that go towards LIFEr’s children, which may include specific gifts or gift cards.
Richmond Behavioral Health Authority
Richmond Behavioral Health Authority champions the health, wellness and recovery of individuals and families in the Richmond community. RBH brings essential care to the people it serves through community services like crisis intervention, mental health services, developmental support and substance use prevention and treatment. You can help RBHA by purchasing nourishment, cold weather or personal care kits.
Ronald McDonald House Charities – Richmond
RMHC Richmond is fueled by the dedication and commitment of thousands of volunteers. It offers several services and programs that provide family-centered care and services to help families get through the most challenging time in their lives. Visit its wish list and off-site volunteer opportunities page.
The Virginia Home
Operating a 130-bed home for adult patients with physical disabilities, The Virginia Home is a progressive, private nonprofit that has been serving Virginians for over a century. The wish list compiles wishes from its patients, which include specialty items like updated wheelchair cushions, ear buds and dentures. Learn more here.
Ready Kids
Out of Charlottesville, Ready Kids provides counseling, family support and early learning opportunities. Its programs focus on early interventions with kids to help mitigate risks and set them up for a lifetime of success. On its wish list, you’ll find everything from construction paper to string cheese. Browse the list here.
