Giving Back to Seniors this Holiday Season

The holidays mean something different for everyone. For many, the holiday season can be a difficult time, especially for those who are experiencing loss. For others, it’s a time of laughter, joy, togetherness. Still for others, it can be a mixed bag. Grief entwined with hope; anxiety alongside peace; loneliness, even in a room full of people.

No matter what feelings the holiday season may evoke, one thing that can bridge the gap between how we feel and how we want to feel is giving back to our communities. When we unite around a common desire to infuse more good into the world around us, it can often alleviate some of the things that feel out of reach.

If you’re looking for organizations to give back to, here are some of our favorites that help address the various needs the senior adults have, including food insecurity, healthcare, social engagement, and companionship:

1. Meals on Wheels of America
• Mission: Provides nutritious meals for seniors who are homebound or have difficulty accessing food.
• How Donations Help: Contributions help deliver meals to millions of seniors across the country, promoting both nutrition and social interaction, particularly during the holidays.
• Website: mealsonwheelsamerica.org

2. AARP Foundation
• Mission: Works to end senior poverty by helping older adults with housing, income, isolation, and hunger.
• How Donations Help: Support programs that assist low-income seniors with basic needs like food, shelter, and access to community services, especially around the holidays.
• Website: aarpfoundation.org

3. The Alzheimer’s Association
• Mission: Supports research, care, and advocacy for people living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
• How Donations Help: Donations fund care services, research initiatives, and educational programs to support seniors and their families affected by Alzheimer’s, particularly during stressful times like holidays.
• Website: alz.org

4. Senior Planet by Older Adults Technology Services (OATS)
• Mission: Empowers older adults to use technology to improve their lives and stay connected.
• How Donations Help: Contributions help fund digital literacy programs, online learning opportunities, and technology training to keep seniors engaged and connected.
• Website: seniorplanet.org

5. National Council on Aging (NCOA)
• Mission: Advocates for improving the lives of older Americans, especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged.
• How Donations Help: Funds help seniors gain access to health services, financial security, and resources to enhance their quality of life, particularly during the holiday season when loneliness can be more acute.
• Website: ncoa.org

6. Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly
• Mission: Focuses on alleviating isolation and loneliness among older adults.
• How Donations Help: Helps organize companionship visits, holiday celebrations, and social events for seniors who might otherwise spend the holidays alone.
• Website: littlebrothers.org

7. St. Barnabas Senior Services (SBSS)
• Mission: Provides social services, meal programs, and wellness activities for older adults, particularly in underserved communities.
• How Donations Help: Contributions provide hot meals, wellness checks, and companionship for seniors who may lack family or social connections, especially around the holidays.
• Website: sbssla.org

8. Pets for the Elderly Foundation
• Mission: Helps cover the adoption fees for seniors who adopt pets from participating shelters, offering companionship and joy.
• How Donations Help: Funding supports the adoption process for older adults who may benefit from the companionship of a pet, reducing loneliness all year round.
• Website: petsfortheelderly.org

Donations given during the holiday season can make a significant difference in the lives of millions of seniors all across the country!

Written by Jordie DiFernando