For many of us, Christmas is a time of family, friends, celebrations and plenty of food. But it can also highlight what some people don’t have. While we are busy planning parties and buying presents, there are people in our communities facing Christmas alone, worrying about money or finding the social expectations of the season difficult to cope with.
The good news is that helping doesn’t always mean making a grand gesture. Sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference.
Pick up the phone
Loneliness isn’t always obvious. An elderly neighbour, someone who lives alone or a friend who has recently lost a loved one may be facing the festive season with little company. A phone call, cup of coffee or invitation for a walk can give someone something to look forward to. It needn’t be a long visit – knowing that somebody has thought to get in touch can be enough.
And don’t assume that everyone who is alone wants to be surrounded by people. For someone who finds social situations difficult, a quiet cup of tea at home may be more welcome than an invitation to a busy Christmas gathering.
Give what you can
Charities are particularly grateful for donations at this time of year, but you don’t have to give a large amount. A few pounds can contribute towards a warm meal or practical support for someone who is struggling.
If money is tight, consider donating items instead. Food banks, refuges and local charities often need toiletries, long-life food, children’s items and warm clothing. Make sure to check what your local organisation actually needs before filling a bag.
Think beyond Christmas Day
The pressure to make Christmas special can be particularly difficult for families who are struggling financially. Rather than donating unwanted Christmas leftovers, why not buy an extra item when doing your weekly shop? A packet of pasta or tin of soup may seem insignificant, but regular donations can add up.
There are also local schemes that provide presents for children whose families cannot afford them. Donating a new toy or book can mean a child has something to unwrap on Christmas morning.
Offer your time
Time can be more valuable than money. Volunteering at a community café, charity shop or local Christmas event can help organisations that rely on volunteers. Even a couple of hours can make a difference.
And sometimes volunteering isn’t necessary at all. Could you offer to pick up shopping for an elderly neighbour? Give someone a lift to an appointment? Take a friend’s dog for a walk?
Notice the person who isn’t there
Perhaps the simplest thing we can do is look around us. Who hasn’t been invited? Who might be struggling quietly? Who used to come along but has gradually stopped?
We don’t need to fix somebody’s problems. We can simply make it easier for them to feel noticed, included and valued.
Christmas is often described as a season of giving, but kindness doesn’t need a price tag. A conversation, a visit, a spare tin from the cupboard or an hour of our time can all matter.
And perhaps the nicest thing about small acts of kindness is that they aren’t only for Christmas. Once we’ve started looking for ways to help, we may find opportunities to make somebody’s day a little brighter all year round.