Feature Image by rawpixel

The holidays are a joyous time, but it’s easy to forget that thousands of families won’t have gifts to open, trees to decorate, or even a place to call home this season.

But you can do your part this winter and give back to those in need — and in more ways than you might think. From donating clothes to volunteering and helping stray animals, we compiled a list of organizations that you can support!

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Feeding America (@feedingamerica) on

Feeding America

With 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries, you can help by donating (just $1 helps provide up to 10 meals!), volunteering at a food bank near you, or by simply spreading the word.


View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pickup Please Donation Pickup (@pickup_please) on

Pick Up Please

You can schedule a free pickup of gently used clothing and household items, which will be donated to a veteran and his/her family in need. It may not seem like much, but it can make all the difference in someone’s life.


View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Best Friends Animal Society (@bestfriendsanimalsociety) on

Best Friends Animal Society

Many animals face freezing temperatures and poor conditions during the winter, so why not donate to a cause that helps animals through outreach and rescue programs?


View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by VolunteerMatch (@volunteermatch) on

Volunteer Match

From helping at a non-profit charity event to spending time at the senior center, Volunteer Match helps you find volunteering opportunities near you. Amazing, right?


 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by American Red Cross (@americanredcross) on

American Red Cross

Give blood to those in need, donate to those affected by natural disasters, and more – the American Red Cross’ mission is to prevent and relieve suffering around the world.


 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Wildlife Conservation Society (@thewcs) on

Wild Life Conservation Society

Through its global field conservation program, four zoos, and aquarium, WCS works to protect the world’s wildlife and wild places. The organization’s goal is to raise $500,000 by December 31, and you can help by donating now – every penny counts!


 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by American Heart Association (@american_heart) on

American Heart Association

Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death worldwide, and the American Heart Association has been working to fund research and promote healthy living and heart-disease prevention since 1924 (that’s nearly 100 years!).


 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by UNICEF USA (@unicefusa) on

UNICEF USA

All children should feel joy, especially during the holiday season. So give to an organization whose mission is to save and protect the world’s most vulnerable children through fundraising, advocacy, and education.

Want to find even more ways to make a difference this holiday season? We found 12 unique gifts that give back.

xx, The FabFitFun Team