Christmas Assistance in Utah

Christmas assistance in Utah

Christmas can be an exciting time of the year. Christmas feels warm and safe, cozy and and magical. It is anticipation, presents, and being thankful. Christmas is sharing, giving and spending time with loved ones.

For some, it can also be stressful and exhausting. It can bring up memories of people who are no longer in your life. It can be a reminder that you’re alone and completely broke. It can bring up feelings of inadequacy or overwhelming guilt over the fact that you can’t provide your family with the life that you have always wanted.

I understand how discouraging it can be at times. I know it can be difficult, but choosing to focus on the positive will really go a long way in bringing joy into your home.

Be proactive and find the help you need for your family. Sometimes the thing that might help you the most could be in the form of you volunteering and helping others.

More ideas here: 10 Ways to Make Christmas Work Financially as a Single Parent

Holiday Meals

If your family is hungry, there are many places you can go for holiday meals in December.

Holiday Gifts

There are a few places you can look into for help with Christmas gifts. If you really do need help, start looking into it early. Some places start in September.

I used to tell clients that if they’re starting to think about Halloween it might be too late to sign up for Christmas help. Put a note in your calendar reminding yourself to look into registration dates for each program right after school starts in September.

Angel Tree by the SL Salvation Army. Registration usually opens in September.

Toys For Tots by the Salt Lake Marine Corp. Registration usually opens in November.

Sub for Santa in Utah County

The Giving Grinch

Sub for Santa Magna F.A.C.T.

Candy Cane Corner

If you missed registration for the big Christmas programs in your area, check into your church, schools (counselors) or community for smaller programs. You can also call 2-1-1 and ask for Christmas assistance.

Volunteer

Whether you need help or not, we can always give to others. If you aren’t able to purchase anything, you may able to volunteer. It can be a great way to teach your children to give. It can also help to focus on others.

You will need to look into each agency for age guidelines. Remember, not everything you do has to be big. Some of the most simple things make a huge difference in another persons life. For more information see my post: Giving during the holidays.

Please share in the comments below any ways that you have been able to help others during the holidays. Do you volunteer with your kids or give in other ways? And what are some ways that you have appreciated helping you?