November 15th is National Philanthropy Day! At CX we are always inspired by the many great local organizations providing critical services to those who need them the most. For those looking to give back to their neighbors there is no shortage of opportunities to do so this holiday season. Here are a few options for supporting the community with donations and/or your time.

Source: Cambridge Community Center VIEW MORE PHOTOS

Opportunities to Volunteer

1. Cambridge Community Center
   On Thursday, November 20th from 12 – 2pm the Cambridge Community Center will host its 35th annual Thanksgiving Luncheon at 5 Callender Street. During the event, volunteers will help serve food to more than 200 seniors.
   Contact: Yvonne “Ms. G” Gittens, [email protected], 617-547-6811

 

2. Cambridge Women’s Center
   On Thursday, November 28th from 12 – 4pm the Cambridge Women’s Center will host its annual Thanksgiving meal at its 46 Pleasant Street location. The Women’s Center is looking for volunteers to help prepare and serve food to women and children in the local community. Those interested in donating food can do so on either Wednesday the 27th or Thursday the 28th, and can view what opportunities have not yet been committed to here.
   Contact: Jessye Kass, [email protected], 617-354-6394

 

3. Somerville/Cambridge Elder Services
   On Thursday, November 28th from 9:30am – 12:30pm, Somerville/Cambridge Elder Services is looking for 15 teams (a runner and a driver) to deliver meals to homebound seniors. Please note, this opportunity requires the completion of a volunteer application and a government issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license. The form can be found here.
   Contact: Volunteer Program Coordinator, [email protected], 617-628-2601 x3214

Source: Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services VIEW MORE PHOTOS

Opportunities to Donate

1. East End House
   The East End House is preparing for its annual Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway, which will provide more than 4.5 thousand individuals and families in Cambridge with a complete meal. This organization has been doing good in the community for over a century. You can lend a hand by donating non-perishable food items (such as: stuffing, gravy, desserts, canned fruits/vegetables, baby food and formula) or $15 gift cards to Shaw’s, Market Basket or Stop & Shop. Please drop off donations at East End House (105 Spring Street in Cambridge) by November 21st at 5pm.
   Contact: Miscelaine Bushu, [email protected], 617-876-4444

 

2. CASPAR
   CASPAR is seeking 12 pumpkin pies for its Thanksgiving Day dinner. Additionally, the cold weather has brought a renewed need for warm clothing and personal care items, particularly new wool socks and hand warmers. To arrange for a drop off, please contact Julia Londergan (information below). In lieu of physical donations, CASPAR also accepts financial contributions to put toward the purchase of winter essentials.
   Contact: Julia Londergan, [email protected], 617-619-5930

 

3. Winter Warmth Drive
   Cambridge Mayor Marc McGovern is leading an annual fundraiser to purchase sleeping bags for Cambridge’s homeless population. His goal is to raise $20,000 before the end of the month, which would purchase 200 bags! Tax deductible donations can be made on the First Parish Cambridge website. If you prefer to send a check, you can do so by making it out to First Parish UU Church, writing “Winter Warmth Drive” in the memo section and mail it to 3 Church St. Cambridge, MA 02138.

 
We are honored to be part of such a tight-knit community that provides so many opportunities to give back! This holiday season, we encourage you to celebrate the season of giving by lending a helping hand to those most in need.