Giving Guide 2020: Ways to give safely in Boise and beyond

For many, the holiday season is about tradition. Some of those traditions include giving.

However, a global pandemic and the need for social distancing means both charities and donors are changing how they meet the needs of our community.

Both are getting creative and working to serve those impacted by COVID-19.

[‘Is there a house I can buy for that?’ How a local nonprofit helps add more affordable housing]

Here are some ways to give to Treasure Valley charities this holiday season:

In-kind

Food, toys and basic supplies are greatly needed right now. Here are ways to give:

• Idaho Food Bank – Food drive locations
• Marine Toys for Tots – List of drop boxes at dozens of local businesses
• Salvation Army’s Angel Tree – Businesses with tree tags representing a child in need
• Interfaith Sanctuary Wish List – List of items to buy from Amazon
  • Other ways you can help
• Boise Rescue Mission Wish List – List of items to buy from Amazon
  • Other items that can be dropped off directly
• Women and Children’s Alliance Giving Tree – Downtown Boise tree with tags for much needed items
  • WCA Amazon Wish List

Monetary

Money helps Idaho Charities serve those in need. During the pandemic, this might be the quickest and safest way to give – as most take donations either online or by phone. Non-profits will take donations year-round but here are some campaigns happening this month:

• Virtual Red Kettle – List of Salvation Army’s digital red kettle locations
• 7Cares Idaho Shares – Donations go to nine local non-profits
• Avenues for Hope – Gifts support housing non-profits
• Amazon Smile – Percentage of purchases on Amazon go to your charity of choice

Time

Many volunteers are older. However, because this population is at higher risk for COVID-19, many non-profits are desperate for help. If you can, here’s are ways to give time:

• St Vincent De Paul – Help manage food pantry drive-thru
• American Red Cross – Clean and sanitize blood donation centers
• Senior living centers: Visit residents through their windows

There are many other ways to give back this year. Volunteer Match and Just Serve both list local in-person and virtual volunteering opportunities.