Thanksgiving is just a beat away, but before we gather round the table and share what we are thankful for this year, let’s take a look at what we can do locally to help those less fortunate before the holidays.

If you have a student that attends Jackson Elementary, consider sending them to school with a winter coat they have outgrown. Jackson is taking donations of gently worn coats for those in need.

As I’ve mentioned before, if you have or get a turkey certificate consider getting your turkey and donating it to the Central PA Food Bank or the American Rescue Workers. It’s an easy way to help out those in need.

The New Love Center Food Pantry will have volunteers at Weis Markets in Jersey Shore on Friday, November 22, to receive donations of turkeys. The New Love Center will be distributing turkeys to nearly 500 families in December during its annual Christmas distribution. Shoppers at Weis Markets who want to use their points to obtain a turkey to donate to The New Love Center can make a significant impact upon the lives of our local residents in need. Shoppers can purchase a turkey inside Weis Markets and bring it outside where volunteers will be stationed at a freezer truck from 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

If you are a Giant shopper, consider purchasing one of their ‘Bags 4 My Cause’ reusable shopping bags. $1 of each purchase will go to the Central PA Food Bank.

There are a ton of Toys-for-Tots locations around locally to donate new, unwrapped toys to kids in need.

The Salvation Army kicks off their Red Kettle Campaign this week, so be sure to drop some spare change where you can.

Riepstine’s in Newberry is collecting new blankets to support the Families United Network.

Horsepower Harley is helping out the Lycoming County SPCA this holiday season. Stop in and pick an SPCA resident from their Christmas tree and give an animal an extra special Christmas this year! You may even find a furry friend to take home!

Historic House Salvage in Newberry is accepting donations of Legos to be donated to Dwell Orphan Care.

Consider attending a local church dinner (our Community Calendar always has a few) to support a local church or one of their projects.

Attend a benefit bingo or craft fair. Anything that supports a local organization, charities, or people in need.

As the end of November nears, it’s easy to start to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, so before the real ‘Tis the Season starts, do something nice for someone in need.

And if you know of other places/organizations accepting donations or offerings to support of local people, places or things this holiday season, please feel free to share them on our Facebook page!