‘tis the season of giving!

By Leigh Wood-Landry

Many people look for ways to reduce consumerism and focus on helping others during the winter holiday season. Making a reverse Advent calendar fits the bill – this wonderful “feel good” project can involve the whole family!

  • Decide on a focus: i.e., toys/entertainment, clothing/toiletries, or food.
  • Choose a container for gathering items. For instance, you might choose a large basket, or a box divided into 24 compartments.
  • You can use duplicate items within your own home – simply ensure that everything is in good condition, unopened, and not past the expiry date.
  • Donate the “calendar” to a charity.

One local option is Loving Hands Kingston, which collects clothing, toiletries, household items, furniture and non-perishable food, and distributes these valuable donations to multiple non-profit agencies and shelters in the area. Drop-off locations include Wagmarr Auto Sales (70 Hickson Avenue) and Shaku Family Martial Arts-East (496 Discovery Avenue, unit 11).