For many of us, the holidays are a great opportunity to refocus our thoughts, give thanks, and show others that we care. The rising costs of goods and services is an issue for most of us, but some in our communities are affected more than others. That's why we're sharing this list of ways you can make a difference in your community during the holidays.
Volunteer
One of the greatest gifts we can give that doesn't cost us a dime, is our time. Offering your time and talents is a meaningful way to give back during the holidays. Help an elderly family member or friend with activities they may have difficultly with, help to pack or deliver meal-kits for those in need, volunteer at your church, or consider other ways you can volunteer in your local community.
Donate Blood
The American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage on September 11, citing a critically low blood supply level that dropped nearly 25% since early August. If you meet the qualifications, are feeling well, and don't have a phobia of needles, donating blood is a great way to help others. If you can't give blood yourself, volunteer to staff a blood drive in your area, or encourage friends to donate. To get started, visit the American Red Cross website or download the Red Cross app.
Clear Your Closets
Decluttering doesn't have to wait until Spring. If you have unused or gently-used clothing items tucked away in your closet or dresser that you'll never wear again, consider donating them to a charitable organization. Other items that are usually in demand include soap, shampoo, and other self-care products.
Give to Great Causes
Charitable organizations need financial support as well as volunteers. If you have a few bucks to spare, why not put it towards a good cause? To protect yourself from possible fraud, we urge you to do a little research to ensure your contributions are reaching the intended recipients or open your hearts to the charities we support for a secure way to give back this holiday season.
Manna Food Drive
Help Manna and Members First Credit Union of Florida in our mission to provide the healthiest food possible for our neighbors in need during the holidays. Members First Credit Union of Florida will be holding a food drive for Manna Food Pantries from November 1, 2023 - December 29, 2023. Donations of non-perishable food items will be collected at all Members First Credit Union of Florida branch locations. Monetary donations can also be made at any of our branch locations in lieu of food items.
Some of Manna's most needed non-perishable food items include: Canned Fruit in 100% Juice, Canned Vegetables, Oatmeal (boxes of individual packets), Tuna (cans 12.5 oz. or smaller, pouches, or to-go kits), Chicken (cans 12.5 oz. or smaller, pouches, or to-go kits), Peanut Butter (16.3 oz. jars or smaller or individual to-go cups), Shelf-stable Microwaveable Meals (e.g. Hormel Compleats), Canned Beans, Canned Soup (low-sodium), and Whole Grain Cereal Bars.
Angel Tree Program
You can help support a neighbor in need this Christmas through the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. Angels are available for adoption at all Members First branch locations. Please bring donated gifts to the Credit Union by Friday, December 1, 2023. Donated gifts must be unwrapped and placed in a bag with the top portion of the angel attached. Monetary donations can also be made to the program by speaking with one of our Financial Service Representatives at a branch or on the phone. To make a donation over the phone, please call (850) 434-2211.
Christmas on the Coast Ornaments
Take care of your holiday shopping while supporting individuals and families in need. Christmas on the Coast ornaments are available for purchase at all Members First branch locations. This year's ornament features the Blue Angel's Fat Albert. Ornaments are $20 each and all proceeds benefit Goodwill Gulf Coast and their mission to serve the community. Goodwill Gulf Coast provides programs and services to help individuals and families overcome challenges due to disabilities and other barriers that impact economic well-being, self-sufficiency, and quality of life.
Redeem Your Rewards Points for Charity
Another way to give back during the holidays is by using your Members First Credit Union of Florida credit card rewards points to make a charitable donation. It's easy, log into scorecardrewards.com and choose to redeem your points towards a charity of your choice.
Redeem your rewards today at scorecardrewards.com
RESOURCES
« Return to "Blog"
Share on Facebook: Ways to Give Back During the Holidays 
Share on Twitter: Ways to Give Back During the Holidays 
