Just like every other aspect of life this year, the holiday season is going to be different. No gathering with extended family, holiday parties, caroling, fine arts concerts, or even volunteering will look different this year. Although different, volunteering is not impossible during a pandemic.

With Covid-19 still being a very real concern in our day to day lives, we often find ourselves unsure of where we can safely volunteer and what we can donate without the exposure of Covid. 

This year has been tough on so many people in so many different ways. Many local charities are in desperate need of help this holiday season. Now more than ever charities, are needing help from the community.

Mission Arlington, a local charity right here in our home town, is still gearing up for the holiday season like years prior. Each year Mission Arlington hands out hundreds of Thanksgiving meals to families in need with the help of food donations and volunteers in and around the community. 

This holiday season Mission Arlington is still allowing volunteers with masks and social distancing. Donations are also still being accepted. Donations can be anything from gently used clothes to toys and books, to canned goods. Mission Arlington is also needing All donations can be dropped off at Mission Arlington in Central Arlington (address listed below).

Mission Arlington is also offering a contactless Amazon wishlist option to donate. (see link below for wishlist)

This is such a great cause that has given so much to our community in so many ways and volunteering this holiday season is a great way to show our appreciation.  

Another place in need this holiday season is Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth. Many families will have to spend Christmas in the hospital this year and donations to the hospital will go to those families and patients. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Cook’s is asking for gift card donations to the Build-A-Bear and gift shop located on the hospital grounds. 

Another way to help the families in the hospital for the holidays is through Cook’s donation drive-through. December 17 Cook’s will be hosting a donation drive through to drop off a limited list of items. (see website below)

Cook’s has also created an Amazon and a Walmart online wishlist where you can purchase an item and send it contactless directly to the hospital. 

Many kids love being able to have a fun craft kit, a new toy, or even just a coloring book to keep them preoccupied while in the hospital. 

This year due to Covid, handmade items like knit hats and blankets will not be accepted. 

Another way to safely help out this holiday season is donating to the North Texas Food Bank. This year has had a record number of families in need of food donations. The North Texas Food Bank is needing canned good donations as well as volunteers. 

There are many volunteer outlets like working at the distribution center, making cards, and working the mobile pantry. The food bank is also taking monetary donations via their website. 

Mission Arlington Amazon Wishlist 

How to give to Mission Arlington

Mission Arlington Address:

210 W. South St.  Arlington, Tx 76010

Cook Children’s Amazon Wishlist

Cook Children’s Walmart Wishlist

Cook’s Donation Drop Off Location:

Main entrance on 7th Ave. and Cooper Downtown Fort Worth from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 Give to North Texas Food Bank

Volunteer Options North Texas Food Bank