Courtesy Intellectual Reserve

Gratitude is in the air at this special time of year — Thanksgiving. In last week’s column, I wrote about some of the many benefits of focusing on those things for which we are thankful. Some of these include better sleep quality, increased feelings of happiness, increased physical and psychological health, improved self-esteem, more hope for the future, stress relief, improvements in friendships and other relationships, reduced blood pressure, help with recovery from substance misuse and even work-related benefits.

Research also shows that when people experience gratitude, they are more likely to give to others. Generosity and performing acts of kindness have also been shown to have positive impacts on mental health. Some of these include reduced stress, improved mood, increased self-esteem, reduced loneliness, alleviated symptoms of depression and anxiety, improved immune system and even lower blood pressure.

Now that we are officially in the holiday season, there are so many ways to share generosity with others. Of course, this is important to do all year, but here are a few current opportunities right here in Utah Valley.

Tabitha’s Way Food Pantry in Pleasant Grove is collecting new toys and new winter coats for children. The items will be given to children of families in need during the week of Christmas. Some ideas include stuffed animals, toy cars, small games and puzzles, dolls and winter coats sizes 5-18. Holding a neighborhood or workplace toy drive would be a fun way to collect items. To donate, contact Kara at kara@tabithasway.org.

This year, the pantry is also looking for Sub for Santa sponsors to provide gifts for families who could use help at this time. Sponsors are asked to provide clothing, toys and shoes for the children. Those interested in sponsoring a family should contact Marisol at marisol@tabithasway.org.

Jeremy Hall

Through the United Way of Utah County’s Sub for Santa program, kind people stand in for Santa and provide gifts for families who are going through financial struggles. These struggles are due to a variety of circumstances, including job loss, death of a family member and health issues. Last year, more than 4,700 children from 1,665 families were served by community sponsors. Check out unitedwayuc.org for more information.

There are Giving Machine locations in 106 cities around the world at which generous people can donate to a variety of causes. Clean water, food, goats and toys are some of the items that can be paid for with the Giving Machines, which are set up by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Donations go directly to both global and local charities, including some right here in Utah. Orem’s machine will be coming to University Place (near Dillard’s) in Orem on Monday. To find a nearby Giving Machine, check out churchofjesuschrist.org.

Utah County’s Children’s Justice Center is in need of donations of toys and games, gift cards, clothing and hygiene products, stocking stuffers, wrapping paper and tape. The center provides healing for abused children through coordinated investigations. Donations can be delivered during regular business hours to either the Provo location, 315 S. 100 East, or the American Fork location, 96 S. 100 East. The donations will be used to help provide Christmas for children who have been served at the center.

Sometimes we’re not in a position to donate monetarily. That’s okay. Donating time, such as volunteering at a local food bank or food pantry, is another great way to help others. Giving a smile and a kind word are both free and take very little time.