The best holiday gift guide: 8 ways to help

Helping others has always been a hallmark of the holiday season. Long before sweater parties, people spent the last months of the year lending a hand to others. And that tradition has endured. In fact, 30% of annual giving happens in December .

From saying a few kind words to making food baskets for needy families, there are countless ways to brighten someone's holiday season without investing too much time or money. If you're looking for new ways to do good with your charitable donations, we've got you covered with our guide to holiday donations.

8 ways to help during the holidays

1. Spread some warmth

A warm blanket is easy to take for granted. Blankets are an easy item to purchase as households often replace them and forget about older blankets. They are very helpful for many who live in hardship and poor conditions during the winter.

2. Raise money for a cause you care about with crowdfunding

Whether you choose to raise money for environmental causes or help fight for justice and equality, organizing a charitable campaign (crowdfunding) is an easy way to take action. Make an even bigger impact this holiday season by starting a fundraising campaign. Holiday giving campaigns can be started by people who want to help others or are looking for help themselves.

3. Send a quick mail

Who doesn't feel a spark of recognition when they open their mailbox and find a handwritten note waiting for them? Writing holiday cards to people may be a small gesture, but it can certainly mean a lot. It's a great way to connect personally with people who no longer have family or friends. For that matter, consider sending holiday postcards to residents of a nearby nursing home. No matter who you send a holiday card to, you'll see that people - young and old - appreciate random acts of kindness.

4. Open your home

Many people this time of year want to spend time with their loved ones, but what about those who can't make it home for the holidays due to illness or financial hardship? Offering to include these people in your holiday festivities can mean everything to them. When there's so much public attention focused on "family," it's especially hard to stay away. Offer hospitality by hosting holiday events for people who are away from their families. The holidays are the perfect time of year to do everything you can to make sure everyone feels valued.

5. Start a conversation

Sometimes the simplest actions can mean the most. Simply having a heartfelt conversation with a person can make an impact, especially during a time of year when they may be feeling the loneliest. People who are unsheltered are usually ignored. By taking the time to talk to them, you can brighten their day.

6. Do good as a group

Trying something new can sometimes be a little intimidating, so why not grab a friend or two? Doing something new or out of your comfort zone can always be challenging at first, so it's a huge plus to get together as a group to do something like a clothing drive for the homeless. Working together to help those in need can be a rewarding experience that can become an annual tradition for you and your friends.

7. Volunteer at a local food bank

Volunteer at a food bank to give food to your neighbors in need. According to studies, 51% of all food programs depend solely on volunteers. Whether you help pack food or help with food delivery, taking action can help those who are facing hardship.

Check out all the campaigns at PavelAndreev.ORG or start your own.

8. Give toys to children from low-income families

It can be challenging for low-income families to afford gifts for the holidays. Make a child's wish come true by giving them a toy. It's a simple gesture that can help both the children and the parents. It lets the family know that someone cares and can bring joy to a child who may not have received a gift otherwise.