As Christmas approaches, people feelings about giving something to others grows. It starts with gifts to family and friends, but it goes much further, it grows the feeling of giving something else to those who most need it and to the community.

House, shelter, food and hot drinks are necessities that for some people are part of their standard of living, but not all are so fortunate, however, we tend to ignore this fact for the whole part of the year, but Christmas and New Years’ time bring with them time for reflection that makes us turn to other sides and notice the needs of others.

Why Christmas?

The neuroscientists have discovered that giving something and producing joy to others make us feel better, our brain makes us feel a gratification by having done something selflessly, and the best thing is that it drives us to repeat it, creating a chain of well-being not only for others but for ourselves.

Donors like to have a clear goal for their donation and the season offers an excellent opportunity to identify the exact cause of how the donation is used.

Additionally in many countries it is a cold season, which is associated with greater difficulties and everything increases empathy and willingness to donate.

And the reality is that even though communities need support all year round, this time of the year creates a special atmosphere and donations also help to create an emotional bond and optimism that is so important to everyone, especially these times.

How can we help?

There are some companies that make donations to different institutions as part of the Christmas and end year celebrations, both in cash and in kind (e.g., Christmas gifts for the little ones). 

Fundraising events are also held in which employees can also participate with donations.

As an individual there are also many ways to help for example by making donations or volunteering. It is becoming easier to do so by electronic means, and social platforms allow to reach a huge number of people in less time, sharing the cause can reach many more people.

And finally, do not forget Christmas is about giving and sharing, every little donation is important no matter how small, you can help this well-being chain spread among more people.