Los Angeles charities for the holidays?

Question

As Christmas gets closer, I've been asked more and more about Christmas lists and things. But i have nothing i necessarily need this year. I'm hoping instead to put together a list of local charities I can pass along to people interested in donating to if they're in the spirit of giving. Any recommendations?

juliane · Answer

The Downtown Women's Center on San Pedro Street is a solid pick if you want to keep it local and direct. They do a holiday wish list program where you can buy specific items like warm socks or toiletries for women experiencing homelessness. Another option is the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank in East LA, they're always slammed this time of year but a cash donation goes a long way since they buy in bulk. I'd skip the big national drives and stick with something like the L.A. Mission on Skid Row if you want to see the impact up close.

filippinalehr · Answer

honestly, Project Angel Food is great if you want something a little different. they deliver meals to people with serious illnesses year-round but ramp it up around the holidays. you can volunteer to pack meals or just donate, and it feels super direct since you know where the money's going. also My Friend's Place in Hollywood does a lot for homeless youth, they always need warm clothes or hygiene kits this time of year.

milli · Answer

if you're into animal stuff, Best Friends Animal Society in Mission Hills is always doing holiday drives. they're the no-kill folks and they have a wishlist on amazon for like, specific toys and blankets for the cats and dogs. also SOVA in West LA is a community food pantry that's super low-key and serves families in the area, they do a holiday adoption thing where you buy gifts for specific kids. kinda nice if you want a name attached to your donation instead of just dropping cash in a bin

rosinajanssen · Answer

One Bright Star in Santa Monica does holiday gift deliveries for foster kids. You can buy from their Amazon list and they handle the wrapping and delivery part which takes the work out of it.

annemaria · Answer

I'd give Homeboy Industries a look, they do great work with former gang members and have a holiday gift drive every year. The vibe is way more about second chances than just handing out stuff.

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