Time is of the Essence to Give: Holiday Charities in Columbus and Franklin County

During this time of year, many of us are fortunate enough to have an abundance of time and money, and can pick at our leisure which gifts to send to our friends and family. Just as in any time in American history, poverty still rears it's head in many areas of the nation, and many neighborhoods in our city. If many of these children are lucky enough to have a roof over their heads and heat this coming winter, they still may not be able to experience the joy of presents under the tree. With parents working low-wage jobs or not able to find work at all, some of them simply feel forgotten, and as if their new year won't provide any hope or excitement.

Thankfully, there are many resources in the area that help provide gifts for needy families. Parents have lamented that there is nothing like the shame and embarrassment that they feel when they are not able to give their children gifts. These organizations exist to proudly and boldly lend a hand, without judgment or scorn, and to assure that many Columbus citizens will still have a form of cheer. Food is also offered through many of these valuable outreach programs, as many simply don't have the budget to prepare something special on Christmas day. As you scan this list to see what different folks are doing to help others this year, make sure that you think hard about how you yourself may be able to help: if you are short on money as well, your time may be appreciated greatly at any of these wonderful organizations this year.

Amethyst Inc.
455 East Mound Street
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 221-7331

This non-profit gladly provides support to women and children, and originated as an Adopt-A-Family program. Those in need can contact them to receive a special Christmas gift that is under $25 in value.

Toys for Tots: In the Franklin and Delaware county region, city of Columbus, and central Ohio, this is where free toys are given to children, unwrapped and brand new. For information on how to apply, just dial (614)-221-2255.

St. Vincent Family Center
1490 East Main Street
Columbus, Ohio 43205
Dial (614) 252-0731

Here within this valuable resource, those in need can find gift cards, toys, and clothing available to them. Applicants go through the “Adopt a Family” channel to process their need for assistance, and an extra helping hand during the holidays.

Center for Groveport Madison Human Needs
PO Box 101
Groveport, Ohio 43125
(614) 586-4017

This program helps children and their families in need from the Groveport Madison School District. Gift cards for perishable food, winter coats, boots, socks, and other necessities can all be found here. Also a great resource to track down personal care, household items, and wrapped presents, this is truly a beacon of inspiration and hope, this is one of the best-equipped charities in the area.

Byron Saunders Foundation
Address is 8260 Howe Industrial Parkway
Canal Winchester, OH 43110
(614) 554-0816

Senior citizens, disabled, and those who are stuck at home can partake in a free Christmas dinner here, and feel special and warm in this season full of hope.

Clintonville-Beechwold Community Resources Center
Address - 14 West Lakeview Avenue
Columbus, OH 43202
For details, call (614) 268-3539

Community Kitchen
640 South Ohio Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 252-6428

Those who are homeless and any Franklin families in poverty can partake in a Christmas meal here, and at least have a resource to be fed well on the most special day of the year.

Restoration Christian Center
1570 S High Street, P. O. Box 07861
Columbus, OH 43207

At this resource center, disabled and senior citizens can be given Christmas food baskets.

Homeless Families Foundation
33 North Grubb Street
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 461-9247

Many different varieties of toys are given to this entity that in turn provides them as gifts to children under the age of 18. Shoes, toys, games, and gift cards are common items that can be found here, and are instrumental in making someone's holidays better and brighter.

Youth Rise Against All Odds
Address - 2900 East Mound Street
Columbus, OH 43209

Here there are toys, gloves, diapers, and other forms of clothing provided for those in need at this huge Christmas Gala. An event that brings joy to many, it provides the hope that is needed for those caught up in the daily struggle to provide for their families.

United Methodist Free Store - Church and Community Development for All People
Address is 946 South Parsons Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43206
(614) 443-1713

200 children in need are provided with clothing, personal hygiene items, and toys during the first couple days of December here.

First Congregational Church
444 East Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone - (614) 228-1741

A free meal is served here on Christmas day, and caroling takes place to bring cheer and hope to all who attend. Small gifts and items for the household will also be presented, and this location has always been recognized as a beacon of hope for the neighborhood.

Neighborhood Services
Main address: 1950 North Fourth Street
Columbus, OH 43201
Call (614) 297-0592

The Neighborhood Services portal on North 4^th is where free Christmas toys, helpings of food, and other staples to get through the holidays are offered. What is offered is based on levels of donation, and working poor as well as elderly benefit immensely from their services.

Salvation Army Angel Tree
760 Worthington Woods Blvd, Columbus, OH 43085,

dial (614) 846-1884

The Angel Tree division of the Salvation Army is on hand to help with children's toys, food for various families, and other services such as clothing provision. An age-old staple that has been a heavy helping hand in the area for decades, this is a reliable charter that always offers up their efforts in any way possible during this time of year where so many are in constant need.

Stowe Mission of Central Ohio
Location is 888 Parsons Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 4320

This is a location where lower-income parents and single moms can browse for holiday needs for their children, with no pressure or stigma attached.

St. Stephen's Community House
The main address is 1500 East 17th Avenue
Columbus, OH 43219
Call (614) 294-6347

This is where the very helpful gift of food baskets for Thanksgiving or Christmas meal are offered. Those who feel the winter is closing in too quick on them before they can fulfill all of their needs will be serviced with dignity, and anyone who feels that they cannot provide for the cold season can show up to the community house to see if they can qualify for their generous charity.