‘Tis the season of charitable giving, holiday campaigns and end-of-year appeals! There is a lot happening all around the commonwealth, more than we could ever Phil you in on, but here’s a quick overview.
Thanks for the Lift
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, nonprofits are embracing the spirit of giving by sponsoring a range of community events across Virginia.
CCHASM Thanksgiving Program
In what has become an annual tradition, CCHASM (Connecting Community to Hope, Access, Support and More) provides more than 10,000 Southside residents with a complete Thanksgiving meal. Each registered household receives a bag of nonperishable food items along with a $20 grocery gift card to purchase a turkey and other fresh ingredients. For information on registration, delivery and other details, including how to give, visit CCHASM’s website.
Hope Turkey Trot 5K
Go ahead and have seconds by burning calories at a 5K Turkey Trot sponsored by House of Esther (HOPE), a nonprofit that raises funds to house and educate young homeless single mothers. Along with a 5K run or walk, there’s a kid relay for ages 7-12, family-friendly activities and even a Turkey Tot Trot costume contest for kids 5-6. The event takes place on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 8 a.m. at Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach. Registration and more info here.
2025 Community Thanksgiving Feast
For more than 20 years, The Giving Heart has sponsored the Richmond region’s largest Thanksgiving Day Feast, attracting as many as 5,000 people to the Greater Richmond Convention Center for a warm meal and even warmer fellowship. Attendees also can receive flu shots and shop for clothing, toiletries and other essentials. The fellowship takes place from 10 a.ml to 3 p.m. Visit The Giving Heart’s website for info on how to donate, give and volunteer.
Lil Roar Cat Rescue
Anyone who was following the massive hysteria when Lowe’s resident cat Francine went missing knows that Virginia loves felines. And now during the season of giving, Lil Roar Cat Rescue in Virginia Beach is looking for donations of any type of cat food to help them feed more than 200 cats. Check out the nonprofit’s “purr-fect” website for more details.
Now You’re Toying with Me
The Community Thrift of Virginia is sponsoring its annual toy drive through Dec. 22. Help make the holidays brighter for families in need by donating toys or by making an online contribution. Community Thrift supports homeschooling families and local co-ops. Drop off toys at 8219 Hull Street Road or visit them online.
Volunteers and Donations Needed in Hanover
The Hanover County Department of Community Resources is looking for help this holiday season. The following organizations need both donations and volunteers, particularly in November. Among the organizations seeking assistance are:
