Fairfax City residents, businesses and friends have many opportunities to help families in need and spread holiday joy by participating in local charitable-giving programs. We will update this information as additional opportunities are available.
Sherwood Center Giving Tree
Ongoing donations are accepted through Dec. 8. Sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Department and City of Fairfax Schools. Info: fairfaxva.gov/givingtree, 703-385-7858
Santa’s Ride
Drop off new, unwrapped toys, games, books, and gifts by Dec. 18 at the Fairfax City General District Court office in Fairfax City Hall (Annex Room 101) and the City of Fairfax Police Station. Info: 703-385-7958
Toys for Tots
Drop off new, unwrapped toys, games, books, and gifts by Dec. 18 at Fire Station 3. Sponsored by the City of Fairfax Fire Department with the U.S. Marine Corps. Info: 703-385-7940
Help City School Students
Donate food and hygiene products to students in need at Katherine Johnson Middle School and Fairfax High School through A Place to Eat. Contribute via their Amazon Wish List (amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/MWOA7SESUTMY) or via financial contributions online (aplacetostand.org/a-place-to-give) and by check to A Place to Stand, 3609 Colony Road, Fairfax, VA 22030. A Place to Stand seeks volunteers in support of its mission to end hunger and homelessness.
Support The Lamb Center
Support the guests at The Lamb Center, a daytime drop-in shelter for people experiencing homelessness. The community can contribute supplies and clothing (check their supplies list online), which also may be purchased via their Amazon Wish List (https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/15KBHBOTEHIQZ). Other opportunities to help include assisting with meal preparation, donating money, and organizing supply drives and fundraisers. Info: thelambcenter.org/get-involved, 703-691-3178
Support Local Families Through Britepaths
Britepaths, a Fairfax non-profit organization, accepts financial contributions to provide food for families in need. Britepaths works to stabilize clients facing economic crisis, foster personal empowerment, and support the needs of children. Donate online via britepaths.org/our-services/holiday-program. Address checks to “Britepaths” and mail to 3959 Pender Drive, Suite 200, Fairfax, VA 22030 (please write “Holiday 23” in memo line). Info: events@britepaths.org, 703-273-8829
Help the Humane Society Help Pets
The Fairfax City-based Humane Society of Fairfax County manages the Second Chance Thrift and Gift Store at 4057 Chain Bridge Road (hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, excluding holidays). HSFC also accepts contributions online via their website: hsfc.org. The organization helps find homes for Fairfax companion animals, provides free pet food and supplies to households in need, and promotes humane education. Volunteers are welcome. Info: hsfc.org, 703-385-3064
Holidays can be financially challenging, so please note that some organizations accept contributions year-round. Please feel free to bookmark those websites for future giving opportunities. Thank you for all you do for your community!
