Give Local: Guide to Holiday Charity [Part One]

As we enter yet another recession-era holiday season, even more members of our community are looking for assistance and generosity. And, as we sit down to our computers on Monday to being our work week by reading our favorite local news and culture website, we're reminded of just how lucky we are. We can't claim to have endless bounty, but we do take great comfort from contributing charitably to great causes. Though out the week, the altruists at Austinist will be bringing you information about local organizations looking for donations, volunteers, and assistance this holiday season. We'll start things off by profiling a few groups that are providing services to some of the neediest members of our community.

Organizations Assisting with Basic Needs

Christmas Bureau of Austin and Travis County
Founded in 1964, the Bureau matches families in need with agencies and sponsors who provide a suitable holiday meal and/or toys to applicants. There are currently 2260 unsponsored families in the Christmas Bureau's database looking for basic provisions this holiday season. Prospective sponsors can register online, call the bureau at 512-453-3950, or stop by the office at 7301 Burnet Road. Consider sponsoring a family with friends or coworkers. Those unable to act as sponsors are encouraged to make in-kind donations to the APD's Blue Santa program, Travis County Sheriff's Brown Santa, or the Salvation Army's Angel Tree program.

Capital Area Food Bank
Of course, there are Capital Area Food Drive boxes popping up all around town, but did you know that the food bank can turn your $5 contribution into seventeen meals - that sure beats an old box of Hamburger Helper and a can of garbanzo beans. CAFB accepts donations online and has set up a Virtual Gift Catalog where you can purchase gift donations such as nutritious after-school meals for one month (for $25) and monthly baskets of fresh produce for low-income families for a year (for $100). Consider purchasing a CAFB gift card (suggested donation of $3) to accompany more traditional gifts.

Meals on Wheels and More
Meals on Wheels provides and delivers nearly a million meals a year to Austin's homebound, promoting dignity and independent living options to those in need. Recently, they were awarded a Challenge Grant from the Kresge Foundation to provide matching funds for the groups new building - if MOWAM can raise $850,000 by September 2010, Kresge will contribute an additional $500,000. Donate now to have your gift count towards the challenge goal. Meals on Wheels and More is also looking for wish list donations of new or gently used heaters, coats, blankets, and basic needs items.