“’Tis the season of giving.” At this time of year, it seems that we hear this message around every corner we turn. And with the abundance of shopping and focus on gift giving, our team agrees with the importance of this message. There are so many ways to give back to those in need, whether it’s a local or regional effort. Here’s a short list of some of our favorite Denver charities and, yes, they all are focused on food.

Adopting a Family

For the past three years, Abrusci’s Fire and Vine, we have adopted a family in need during the holiday season. This year, we connected with The Children’s Treehouse Foundation, a local organization on a mission to ensure every child whose parent is diagnosed with cancer is given the early tools and emotional support to cope. The foundation has matched us with a family whom we will be providing a holiday meal at the restaurant and shopping for the items on their wish list for the family’s holiday gift exchange. We believe the holidays are a very important time for family members to gather and create memories, especially those with young children. And this isn’t always easy when life gets difficult. Whether they are mourning the loss of a family member or going through a financially difficult time, offering a family time together shared over a delicious meal is a cause we are passionate about and are proud to be a part of.

Meals on Wheels

TLC Meals on Wheels delivers hot meals to seniors in the south metro Denver area. You can get involved by donating here. $25 a month provides a week of fresh, nutritious, home cooked meals to a senior citizen in need. Get involved and learn more here.

Denver Rescue Mission

The Denver Rescue Mission has a full bounty of volunteer opportunities this time of year. You can host a drive, wherein you organize your friends and family to donate needed items, volunteer your time at a mission meal service, or help with overall pantry and kitchen organization needs at the outreach center. Get involved in these and many more opportunities here.

There is a multitude of other charities with services that allow you to adopt a family during the holidays, including: Denver Rescue Mission Adopt-a-Family, Denver Human Services Adopt-a-Family, Teen, or Senior Holiday Gift Drive, The Catholic Charities Adopt-a-Family Program, and more. A quick google search will connect you with the closest organizations, making it even easier to get involved.

May your days be bright, and your heart generous during this season of giving.