Your utility guide to doing good, feeling great, and making the holiday a little brighter in the place we called home.

The holidays in Portland are all about cozy vibes – holiday bazaars, twinkly lights, and of course – our community. While you’re sipping peppermint mochas and binge-watching your favorite holiday movies, consider taking a little time to give back. Whether it’s serving a warm meal, donating a toy, or just lend a hand, there are plenty of ways to spread some holiday cheer this holiday season. Here’s a quick list to get started:

SnowCap Community Charities – Share the Warmth

SnowCap has been fighting hunger in East Portland and Gresham for over 50 years. During the holidays, they work extra hard to make sure local families don’t go without food. Whether you help pack food boxes or sort donations, it’s a small way to make a big impact.

Volunteer: Toy sorting, bell ringing, or meal prep.

Donate: Clothing, toys, or monetary donations.

Blanchet House

Blanchet House is a Portland nonprofit that serves free meals and offers housing to people experiencing homelessness and poverty. Volunteers help plate and serve food in their Old Town dining hall – no experience necessary, just bring good vibes and a willingness to help.

Volunteer: Meal service shifts

Donate: Clothing, hygiene items, or monetary donations.

Doernbecher Children’s Hospital – Bring Joy to Little Fighters

For kids spending the holidays in the hospital, even a small gesture can mean the world. Doernbecher Children’s Hospital makes sure every young patient feels some magic during the season with its Holiday Giving Program. You can help by donating toys, books, or games – or even just sending a cheerful note.

Volunteer: Opportunities vary during holiday season.

Donate: New toys, books, gift cards for teens.

Oregon Food Bank – Feed the Need

Want to fight hunger and feel good doing it? Oregon Food Bank is your go-to. December is one of their busiest times of the year, and they need help sorting food and preparing it for distribution across the state. It’s beginner-friendly and full of good energy.

Volunteer: Sort and pack food.

Donate: Canned goods, pantry staples, or monetary donations.

The Salvation Army – Ring, Wrap, Repeat

You know the red kettles. But the Salvation Army also does holiday toy drives, food assistance, and community support all month long. Volunteer shifts are flexible, and yes – bell ringing is surprisingly fun and festive.
Volunteer: Toy sorters, gift wrappers, bell ringers.
Donate: Toys, warm clothing, or monetary donations.

Portland Rescue Mission – A Hot Meal Can Change a Day

The Portland Rescue Mission serves thousands of meals throughout the holidays and offers shelter, addiction recovery, and support services. Volunteers help with meal service, donation sorting, and keeping the facility running smoothly during the busy season.

Volunteer: Serve meals, assist with holiday events.

Donate: Warm clothing, sleeping bags, hygiene items.

Give a Little, Feel a Lot

Portland has a big heart, and this time of the year, it really shows. Whether you’ve got a few hours or a trunk full of donations, your contribution matters. Volunteering not only helps others – it lifts your own spirits too.

So let’s throw on that beanie, grab a thermos, and go make some holiday magic happen this winter!