Making the Holidays Merry for Families in Need

Photo Credit: Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Caleb Gomez

Every year, we hear from donors who want to know which charities are dedicated to making the holiday season merry and bright for families in need. There are many charities that provide clothing, meals, toys and other goods to disadvantaged families so that they might experience the joy of the year-end giving season.  

Below is a list of just some of the 3 and 4-star charities that offer such programs, along with a brief explanation of the services they offer.* Click on the charity's name to access its contact information and review its Charity Navigator rating.

Marine Toys For Tots Foundation	Collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distributes those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.
The Empty Stocking Fund	Purchases brand new items in sufficient quantities to offer a variety of age- and gender-appropriate choices. In December, the charity invites parents and guardians of children that are qualified to receive certain benefits through the Division of Family and Children Services to visit Santa's Village and select gifts for their children.
Family Giving Tree	Fulfills holiday wishes and provides backpacks filled with school supplies to children in need.
Samaritan's Purse	Via Operation Christmas Child Project, the charity sends gifts to those in need overseas.
Holiday Express	Provides gifts to the needy during the holidays and throughout the year.

*This isn't an all-inclusive list of charities offering such services.