My favorite part about Christmas and the holiday season is being able to spend time with the people I love. Now that my cousins and I are in college, we rarely see each other throughout the year, and Christmas is the one time we can all get together. Regardless of how seldom I see my cousins now, I am forever grateful for all the memories we have shared together. However, many children do not have memorable Christmas experiences like I do. Children in poverty and abusive households especially may dread the holiday season rather than look forward to it.
Every holiday season, my family and I donate a portion of the money we receive as gifts to organizations that buy Christmas presents for children in need. There are a variety of local charities and organizations that help children during the holiday season. Some of the more popular ones include St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Toys for Tots, Operation Christmas Child, and The Make-a-Wish Foundation. Even if you can’t donate much, every dollar can help buy presents for children who would otherwise not receive anything during the holidays. Giving helps keep the Christmas season alive and brings joy to families.
Additionally, the city of Anaheim hosts many events during the holiday season. My favorite events are the ones where children can meet Santa Claus, do Christmas-themed arts and crafts, and watch the lighting of a Christmas tree. I love volunteering at Anaheim’s Christmas events because they help bring happiness into these children’s lives. Watching the children’s faces light up when they see Santa Claus and knowing that I was a part of making that happen is always my favorite part of the holiday season.
I love the holiday season and it breaks my heart knowing that not everyone has positive memories associated with it. I try my best to help others by bringing joy and happiness to their lives during these times and recommend that others do the same as well.