The holiday season is the time of year that seems to really bring out the best in people. It’s not all about presents and shopping and photo opportunities with Santa, although those are all a part of it. More importantly, it’s the season of giving.
There are so many families and individuals in need here on Cape Cod who could use a little cheer in their lives. And, though there are many worthwhile causes to which you could donate your dollars (which is always greatly appreciated), why not consider volunteering your time, as well?
Cape Cod offers an abundance of opportunities for those willing to take a little time out of their busy lives to help others. Food pantries, donation centers, shelters and other organizations can always use a hand, especially this time of year. They are many wonderful organizations that can use your help. Here are a few suggestions for those who’d like to go the extra mile with their holiday generosity. Not only will you be helping others, you’ll be doing something that will make YOU feel good, as well.
The Family Pantry of Cape Cod – Located at 133 Queen Anne Road in Harwich, the Pantry is currently in need of help on Saturdays. They’re looking for help with stocking groceries, food distribution, help in its clothing boutique, donation intake, and client registration and intake. No experience is necessary and multiple shifts are available. Call 508-432-6519 for more information or visit thefamilypantry.com.
Housing Assistance Corporation Cape Cod – HAC is seeking volunteers to work the phones during their 14th annual Shelter Cape Cod Telethon on Dec. 14. This event will help shelter families and individuals stay in safe housing this coming winter. Throughout the rest of the year, you can work with clients in shelters, help staff the offices, or volunteer at major annual events like the Housing With Love Walk. To volunteer, visit haconcapecod.org/volunteer.
The Cape & Islands Veterans’ Outreach Center – Located on Main Street in Hyannis, the Veterans’ Outreach Center offers a food pantry, transitional housing assistance, support services for veterans’ families and an incarcerated veteran program. To find out how you can help, call 508-778-1590 or 774-470-4971 or visit capeandislandsvoc.org/.
The Cape Cod Hunger Network – Visit capecodhungernetwork.org/FoodPantries.aspx to view a list of your local food pantries by town. You can contact them directly to see if they’re in need of volunteers this holiday season or at any time throughout the year, and to find out how you can help.
Cape Cod Council of Churches – The Council’s Faith Neighborhood Kitchen has served over 140,000 nutritious meals to its neighbors in need since it opened in 2012. To see how you can help, or to volunteer your time, call the Council at 508-775-5073 or email [email protected].
Lower Cape Outreach Council – Lower Cape Outreach Council sponsors eight food pantries on the lower Cape and makes monthly food distributions to local Councils on Aging, WIC and the ape Cod Children’s Place. To find out how you can volunteer, visit lcoutreach.org/volunteers.
By Ann Luongo, CapeCod.com Lifestyle Reporter
About Ann Luongo
