In light of all that 2020 has thrown at the world, it’s important to take the time to help others in need, especially during a global pandemic where people have lost their jobs and risked their health. Here are a few causes that could use your help this holiday season.
Helping the Hungry Virtually (HTHV): HTHV is a nonprofit organization, run by a group of teenagers, that is fighting against food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across the nation, food banks are closing, people are losing their jobs, and children aren’t receiving meals from schools because of COVID-19. HTHV is helping fight this hunger crisis by sending grocery gift cards to families in need, eliminating the risk of physical contact. You can do many different things to help HTHV, including making a donation, nominating a family in need, and joining the HTHV team. All donations are used for the grocery e-gift cards. For more information you can contact LM seniors Thea Kerekes, Jane Spencer, and Faye Berry, the leaders of the Philadelphia branch. You can also visit HTHV’s website: www.helping the hungry virtually.com.
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF): ALSF raises money to fund research to find cures and better treatments for children with cancer. ALSF started as a front-yard lemonade stand and has evolved into one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research. Their mission, according to their website, is, “To change the lives of children with cancer through funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families, and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer.” During the pandemic, ALSF has set up an emergency fund that helps families during these difficult times. The fund provides extended hotel stays, grocery assistance, and travel support. A way you can contribute is by holding a virtual lemonade stand or fundraiser. On January 16 2021, ALSF will be holding their annual Lemon Ball virtually. To find more information about the event and ALSF, visit their website: www.alex’s lemonade.org.
Best Buddies International: Best Buddies International is a nonprofit organization that is working to establish an inclusive environment that creates opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program works to provide one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, inclusive living, and leadership development. Best Buddies has over 3,000 school chapters and over 100,000 participants. There are many different ways to support and become involved in the organization. You could join the LM chapter, attend an event/walk/challenge, volunteer, or donate. To find more information about how you can help or be a part of Best Buddies, visit their website: www.bestbuddies.org.
Plaid Pajamas Project: The Plaid Pajamas Project is a charity organization that collects brand new pajamas for children in need. It started as a Christmas tradition and now the project collects donations in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New Haven, and more. Plaid Pajamas collects at many different locations including drop spots, company collection boxes, individual donors, and even birthday party donation drives. If you aren’t interested in donating pajamas, the Plaid Pajamas Project could still use your help to pay for supplies like wrapping paper and delivery fees. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, drop-spots in the Main Line region won’t be used this year. Instead, the easiest way to donate is to email the organization at [email protected] or visit their website at www.plaid pajamas project.com.
