It is of course the season of giving, and not just presents for loved ones and friends, but giving to our neighbors in need. There are many wonderful organizations that deserve our support, but here are three standout organizations that are helping our neighbors –  the sick, the elderly, and those in need of food and shelter.  They could really use your help this year tomatoes.  Read more below.

God’s Love We Deliver – Delivering Nutrition Needs to our Ill Neighbors

This lifesaving NYC based organization, God’s Love We Deliver, prepares and delivers nutritious, high-quality meals to people who, because of their illness, are unable to provide or prepare meals for themselves.  Their mission is to improve the health and well-being of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other serious illnesses by alleviating hunger and malnutrition. They also provide nutrition education and counseling to individuals, families, and care providers. ALL of their services are free of charge.

You can make a donation, or contribute by buying this beautiful “Bee” pin in honor of Joan Rivers who was a huge supporter of this organization.  Get more details.

Citymeals Wheels – Help our Elderly Neighbors 

This wonderful organization was co-founded more than 25 years ago by restaurant critic Gael Greene who is still very much involved with this group.   This time of year can be very lonely for our city’s isolated elderly – but with nourishing meals, cheerful visits and – most importantly, your help – it doesn’t have to be.  Throughout the year and especially during the bitter winter, Citymeals on Wheels provides an uninterrupted lifeline of nutritious meals to 18,000 homebound elderly New Yorkers. In addition to making sure they never have to go outside in the perilous, freezing weather, their devoted staff and volunteers also deliver vital human companionship.  Learn more.

St. Francis Food Pantries & Shelters – Donate a Ham

The number of individuals, families and children in need of food, clothing and shelter in the NYC area is staggering.  The St. Francis Food Pantries & Shelters,  with its more than 40 non-profit Food Pantries, Soup Kitchens, Safe Havens, Drop In Centers and Shelters throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Long Island, Westchester and New Jersey provides a wide range of services to feed, clothe, counsel, and alleviate physical and emotional hunger in a dignified and supportive manner to those in need.  Learn more about their wonderful work, and for just $20 you can donate a ham to a family this Christmas.