The holiday season is here soon, and the air is filled with the joys of giving, sharing, and spreading joy! However, the ongoing COVID has completely changed the look of the safe holiday season. And even when the virus has changed so many things about our daily lives, we can’t just keep calm and not celebrate the joy. It just means that we need to take extra precautions and get more creative to give and celebrate safely.
So, if you are looking to donate to a charity, share gifts with your loved ones, or even help those in need, there are a number of creative and thoughtful ways you can make a positive impact and safe holiday during COVID-19.
Here Are 7 Ideas for Safe Holiday Giving During Covid-19:
1. Virtual Gift Exchanges
Virtual gift exchanges are an excellent way to maintain the tradition of gift-giving while minimizing in-person contact. You can set up a virtual Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange with friends and family through video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype. Each participant can send their gifts by mail, and the unwrapping and sharing of the presents can be done together online.
2. Support Local Businesses
Many small businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic. This holiday season, consider shopping locally to support your community. Buy gifts from local stores, order takeout from your favorite restaurants, or invest in locally crafted products. Supporting local businesses not only helps them survive challenging times but also ensures your gifts are unique and thoughtful.
3. Donations to Charities
Charitable organizations need support more than ever this year. You can make a difference by donating to a charity that aligns with your values and the causes you care about. Many charities have adapted to the pandemic and offer contactless donation options. Whether it’s providing food to those in need, supporting healthcare workers, or helping children access education, your contribution can make a positive impact.
4. Volunteer Virtually
If you’re looking to give your time, many organizations offer virtual volunteer opportunities. You can help with tasks such as online tutoring, providing companionship to seniors through video calls, or assisting with virtual fundraising events. Volunteering from the safety of your home allows you to give back without risking exposure to the virus.
5. Send Personalized Care Packages
Creating personalized care packages for your loved ones shows you care, even from a distance. Include their favorite treats, books, self-care items, or handcrafted goods. You can ship these packages directly to their door, ensuring a safe and thoughtful gift.
6. Gift Cards and Subscriptions
Gift cards and subscription services are flexible and convenient gift options. You can purchase gift cards from local businesses, restaurants, or online retailers. Subscriptions for streaming services, magazines, or book clubs provide entertainment and joy throughout the year. These gifts are easy to send electronically.
7. Acts of Kindness
Acts of kindness don’t always involve material gifts. This holiday season, consider performing random acts of kindness for your community. Shovel your neighbor’s sidewalk, send a heartfelt letter or email to a friend, or offer to run errands for an elderly neighbor. Small gestures of goodwill can make a big impact on someone’s day.
Remember that safety should be a top priority in all your holiday-giving endeavors.
Here are some additional tips to ensure a safe holiday season:
- Follow Health Guidelines: Stay informed about your local health guidelines and follow them strictly. These guidelines may include mask-wearing, social distancing, and restrictions on gatherings. Prioritize safety above all else.
- Ensure a Safe Holiday: Prioritize contactless options whenever possible, like safe holiday delivery services, online payments, and curbside pickup. Numerous businesses and charities now provide these contactless alternatives to safeguard your well-being and that of their staff.
- Practice Safe Shipping: If you plan to send gifts by mail, ensure you understand the shipping deadlines and guidelines from postal services. Consider sending packages early to account for potential delays.
- Ensure a Safe Holiday Connection: If you can’t be with your loved ones in person for a safe holiday, stay connected through video calls, phone conversations, and messaging apps. Share your holiday wishes and sentiments virtually to maintain a sense of togetherness while prioritizing safety.
- Be Adaptable: Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances. The situation with the pandemic may evolve, and it’s essential to remain flexible in your holiday plans.
- Stay Positive: The holidays are a time of celebration and joy. While this year may present challenges, maintaining a positive and hopeful outlook can help you navigate through the season.
This holiday, it’s time to try something new. You can still always make a difference and bring joy to the lives of others, all while ensuring all the safety measures. By adapting to these safe holiday-giving ideas and sticking with the recommended safety guidelines, you can still follow all your traditions and also be in line with the COVID protocols. Let your kindness and generosity shine through, even during these challenging times!
Also Read: The Holiday Health Risk You Probably Don’t Expect
