As the holidays approach, it is easy to become distracted due to planning for festivities, decorating and gift shopping; however, it is important to make time to give back to those in need.

According to the Official Poverty Measure, over 11 million children in the U.S. live below the poverty line. The families of these children struggle to put food on the table and do not have the money to buy luxury items such as gifts. For many families, Christmas simply isn’t in their budget. Those with more resources should give back during the holidays to those who rely on charities for winter clothing, meals and gifts.

Every year, my family and I donate to multiple charities that help provide meals and gifts to those in need. My personal favorite is Mission Arlington, a Christian organization that helps provide for those in need, such as single-parent households and low-income families. For as long as I can remember during every holiday season, my grandmother and I have packed up our car with canned goods, clothing and children’s toys to donate to Mission Arlington. With the help of these donations, members are able to provide food, clothing and other necessities. During the holidays, Mission Arlington provides free Thanksgiving meals and opens a free Christmas store every December where parents can pick up gifts for children ages 0-17. These gestures help families provide gifts for their children while putting their money toward basic necessities, like rent and groceries.

You should consider donating old or unwanted clothes to the nearest homeless shelter instead of selling them on Poshmark or other online marketplaces. As the weather is getting colder, these shelters are increasingly in need of winter clothing such as coats, hats and gloves. Most shelters will give you a tax-write off for your donations. It’s a win-win situation.

Another great way to give back is by helping out local food banks. Next time you go grocery shopping, consider picking up extra canned items to donate. Volunteering at your local soup kitchen to prepare fresh meals for those in need is another viable option. These opportunities teach valuable skills such as empathy and communication, as well as the ability to see the direct impact you make on individuals within your community.

Volunteering is a great way to help out your community. There are so many places in need of volunteers and it’s easy to find a cause you’re passionate about. Personally, I love taking care of children. A year ago, I made the decision to start volunteering in childcare in my church, and to say my life has changed would be an understatement. Over the past year, the church has become my second home, and I have created a strong bond with both the children and the other volunteers.

Giving back to the community is not only beneficial to others, but knowing you, as an individual, are bringing happiness into somebody else’s life – it makes you feel good, too. I have never felt happier than when I get to see the smiles on the faces of the children I’ve helped. Volunteering has helped me recognize how much impact a single person can have on their community.

This year, give the gift of empathy and be the Santa to those who are less fortunate and do not have one.