Unless you are connected with someone in the armed forces, you may not realize the impact a spouse or parent being deployed has on a family. Operation Homefront understands the challenges service members, wounded veterans, and their families face and is dedicated to providing assistance. Over the years, this organization has been helping American military families through an array of programs; two of my favorites are their Holiday Toy Drive and Holiday Meals for Military programs. Read on for more details on how Operation Homefront assists military families during the holidays and how you can get involved.
Holiday Toy Drive
The Holiday Toy Drive runs through November and December of each year. With the support of several sponsors and generous donations from folks like you, Operation Homefront has been able give the gift of Christmas to countless children. There are several ways to get involved with this toy drive, such as donating toys, setting up a collection bin at your workplace or church, helping distribute toys, or becoming a volunteer. To learn more, click here.
Holiday Meals for Military
In 2015, Operation Homefront provided 8,500 meals to military families nationwide and is on track to provide more than 12,000 meals this year! For folks who are struggling to make ends meet, this generosity makes a world of difference. The season seems brighter when they experience glimmers of hope thanks to kind-hearted souls. Click here to locate a food drive near you and see a list of upcoming events.
Give to a Specific Need
Operation Homefront maintains a list of people’s needs that require urgent assistance, and each need has a monetary goal to which you can donate (similar to a GoFundMe campaign). For example, if someone needs help paying their mortgage, you can donate any amount towards that campaign. Maybe you yourself know what it’s like to have your utilities cut off or to have the threat of foreclosure looming over your head. However you decide to give, your tax-deductible donation will make a world of difference in another’s life. Click here to see the needs list and find one (or more!) that speaks to you.
Other Ways to Give
There are various other ways you can get involved with this admirable charity, now and throughout the year. If you are specialized in a service-based line of work (e.g., handyman, mechanic, accountant), you can donate your time and abilities. Federal employees can donate by withholding a portion of their paychecks. For a full list of ways to donate to Operation Homefront, click here.
With today being St. Lucia’s Day, I just had to share this adorable felt doll pattern. I’m in awe of all the details: the dress’ embroidery, the candle crown, and the teensy bows in her hair. When you make your doll, you can customize all the features with your favorite colors or simply follow the instructions to replicate it as you see in the image below. If you also love this designer’s style, check out all the other patterns in their Etsy shop. I’m starry-eyed over this baby fawn, these Christmas mice, and the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future.
As I mentioned in the Christmas sweater roundup earlier today, National Ugly Sweater Day is this week. Use this printable invitation to invite your friends and loved ones to an evening when everyone can wear their favorite festive sweater. You’ll work with the designer of this Etsy shop to customize the particulars of your party: date, time, location, etc. Once you’re pleased with your invitation, you’ll get the digital file to print at home or at your local print shop.
And don’t forget about the special Etsy promotion that ends today!
It’s time to pull out your craziest Christmas sweater because this Friday, December 16th is National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day. Who even invented this holiday? I’m not sure, but it gives us all a reason to wear our heinous holiday knits! If you’re in need of a sweater, then I’ve got you covered. Whether you want to wear your sweater to the office or a yuletide party, here are some glorious garments that’ll make you smile and snicker.
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Like one my granny used to wear, this knitted vest is a hodgepodge of Christmas imagery that includes a wreath, plaid patches, holly, a stocking, a snowman, and more.
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I know this isn’t a sweater, but I simply had to include this oh-so-Christmassy suit! Guys will look both dapper and tacky is this festive outfit.
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For you DIYers, you can decorate your own ugly Christmas sweater with this all-in-one kit. The box comes with a sweater, pompoms, sparkly pipe cleaners, beads, bells, and more. When you win the tacky sweater contest at your workplace, you can claim all the credit!
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For all you A Christmas Story fans out there, this leg lamp sweater is just for you!
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Elf is one of my favorite Christmas movies, so I absolutely love this holiday sweater featuring Buddy and one of his many quotes. Buy it for yourself or a beloved cotton-headed ninny muggins. 😉
All that talk about sleigh rides earlier today got me pining for a sleigh ride myself! When I saw this distressed wooden sleigh ride sign, I thought it was fitting that I share it today. Made from a piece of pine, the wood is stained, then finished with distressed paint in the color of your choice. Whether you give this sign to a loved one or buy it for yourself, it’ll fit in perfectly with other rustic holiday decor.
And don’t forget about the special Etsy promotion that ends this Monday, December 12th!
