The holiday season can be a wonderful time of year, but it can also be challenging for those less fortunate, especially during a pandemic. In case you are in a position to give to a charity, we are writing to introduce you to some worthy local and national non-profit organizations to which you could donate during this difficult time.
The following non-profit organizations do important work, including helping animals and helping people who are struggling to find shelter, in need of warm clothes, or a warm meal:
American Red Cross, https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/
Each day, thousands of people provide compassionate care to those in need. The Red Cross’s network of generous donors, volunteers, and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering, here at home and around the world.
They roll up our sleeves and donate time, money, and blood. They learn or teach life-saving skills so communities can be better prepared when the need arises. They do this every day because the Red Cross is needed – every day.
Homeless and Travelers Aid Society, http://hatas.org/get-involved/donate/
HATAS was formed in 1927 with the mission to end homelessness within Albany County and the Capital Region. The organization provides relief by meeting the immediate need for shelter, food, and clothing in addition to addressing the long-term need for affordable housing and sustainable employment.
While employing a holistic wrap-around approach in caring for neighbors in need, they serve all persons with dignity and respect. HATAS works in concert with their partners in service to eliminate redundancies and to increase the quality and variety of services available within the Capital Region.
Joseph’s House and Shelter, Inc., http://www.josephshousetroy.org/donate
Founded in 1983, Joseph’s House and Shelter, Inc. is a community-based, not for profit corporation that provides a continuum of homeless services to residents of the Capital Region. Joseph’s House offers emergency shelter, street outreach, and support services to homeless and formerly homeless individuals, youth, and families. They offer non-judgmental services where each guest’s dignity and worth are recognized and respected.
Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, https://mohawkhumane.org/donate
Founded in 1887, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (MHHS) is the oldest and largest animal protection organization in New York’s Capital Region, serving Albany, Rensselaer, and surrounding counties. In addition to providing shelter and care for stray, abused, and unwanted animals, they provide an ever-increasing array of services for animals and those who care for them. These programs contributed to a 95.2% live release rate in 2019. This includes low-cost spay/neuter and wellness services, vaccination and microchip clinics, stray housing for municipalities, dog training, a pet food pantry, and humane education programming for all ages.
Safe Inc., https://safeincofschenectady.org/donations/
Since 1985, Safe Inc. has led the effort to get youth out of the “street life” and into a safe environment where staff works with youth to empower them and change their future story. They have worked tirelessly to address the social issue of human trafficking and child exploitation for over 30 years.
Things of My Very Own, Inc., https://thingsofmyveryown.org/donate/
Things of My Very Own, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides crisis intervention services to children:
- Impacted by extensive abuse and/or neglect
- At-risk of a Child Protective Services intervention
Their goal is to keep children together with non-abusive family members and out of the foster care system, whenever possible.
The transition out of an abusive situation is often sudden and unexpected. Rarely is a child able to return home to retrieve belongings prior to their move. Things of My Very Own, Inc. recognizes the need for children to have basic necessities and things of their very own as soon as possible, so they can begin their healing process.
United Way, https://www.unitedway.org/local/united-states/new-york/united-way-of-the-greater-capital-region
United Way improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.
Every day, volunteers, donors, and advocates are making a lasting difference in so many ways. That can mean helping a child learn to read, donating money to make sure people have access to quality medical care, speaking out in support of policies that provide training for in-demand jobs and so much more.
They focus on education, financial stability, and health, the building blocks for a good life and a strong community.
Vanderheyden, https://www.vanderheyden.org/donate_now/
Vanderheyden is recognized as one of the premier children, adult, and family service agencies in the Capital Region of New York. For more than 180 years, They have been providing services to youth and adults who:
- Have been abused, neglected, or abandoned
- Have emotional and behavioral challenges
- Have developmental disabilities
- Are caring for a special needs child or individual at home
Their community-based services include a Residential Treatment Center, Diagnostic/Respite Service, Educational Facility, and Community Services.
Thank you for your consideration, and have a safe and joyful holiday season!
Created 11/18/20
