‘Tis the season for gifting and giving, and while we should keep in mind the concept of providing for others the whole year through, if making charitable contributions are part of your holiday plans this year, deadlines are fast approaching. Below you’ll find a list of local places to drop off donations of goods, or how to make monetary contributions. (And in some cases, these contributions are tax deductible, which could certainly help out anyone with limited funds, but would still like to assist those in need.) Happy giving, and happy holidays!

Toys For Tots – Most locations in Ocean City, MD and the surrounding areas are accepting donations through December 14^th. Ocean City locations include City Hall, the Coast Guard Station, and both Greene Turtle locations, north and west. More information on the local effort, here.

Worcester County G.O.L.D. assists families during the holidays through their Helping Hands for the Holidays program. They have received a great number of families this year. If your interest lies in purchasing gifts, or gift cards for families in need, please contact Worcester County G.O.L.D. at 410-677-6830 to see what you can provide to make sure all of our local families can share in the holiday spirit.  

Diakonia – Accepting food donations for the Food Pantry, which is on track for having a record need this year; also accepting monetary donations on-going, and volunteer services. More information can be found here.

Coat Drive Ongoing - The 120th Street office of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is continuing to accept new or used coats through January 31^st. They can be dropped off daily, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., at 12003 Coastal Highway. All collected will be given to local shelters.

Habitat for Humanity, Worcester County, MD – Donations of cars, boats, RV’s and other motorized vehicles through Habitat International’s CarsforHomes.org.  All proceeds from vehicles donated from Worcester County will be given to our Worcester County affiliate. Also seeking donations of appliances, furniture, building supplies and other household items on-going; monetary donations also welcome. Volunteers in various capacities always needed. More information: Facebook Habitat for Humanity Worcester County Maryland.

The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore - Simply put, this is a nonprofit that helps other local nonprofits and community needs at large with grant, funding, and program assistance. In FY 2012 they awarded $4.4 million in grants to address the needs of our local community. This link lists exactly what potential donors for the CFES may give.

The United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore - Much like the CFES, the United Way helps nonprofits in our area help those in need, with a special focus on education, income, and health. Find out how to donate, here.

Read more about other successful holiday giving campaigns:

And, if you have a charity you support and would like to share, please do so in the comments below.