Spreading Holiday Cheer in the Mohawk Valley, New York

Charity Opportunities in the Area

As the holiday season approaches, the Mohawk Valley is alive with the spirit of giving. At Benn Realty, we celebrate the generosity and compassion of our neighbors, who exemplify the ethos of neighbors helping neighbors. This season, there are numerous opportunities to provide comfort and support for those in need right here in the great state of New York. Here are some worthy causes originating in the Mohawk Valley area that are active this December and beyond:

Community Food Drives

Participating in or organizing community food drives is a powerful way to support neighbors facing food insecurity. Local businesses, schools, and community centers can collaborate to host drives, making a collective impact on hunger in the Mohawk Valley.

iServe Mohawk Valley

Initiated by Mohawk Valley Community College, iServe Mohawk Valley is a volunteer project addressing hunger in Rome, N.Y. This endeavor strives to alleviate hunger while providing individuals with a meaningful community work experience. Learn more about how you can help here.

MVAR Food Drive for the Hope House

The Mohawk Valley Association of Realtors hosts an annual food drive for the Hope House, contributing to the well-being of those in need. Learn more about MVAR and our work here. 

Johnson Park Center Food Pantry

Johnson Park Center is supported by various food drives sponsored by businesses and neighbors in the Utica, NY area.

Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen

Find out how you can contribute to Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen and help those in need during the holidays by visiting their website.

Utica Food Pantry

Support the Utica Food Pantry in its mission to provide essential resources to the community.

For Families and Children in the Community

 

Adopt-a-Family Program by YWCA

The YWCA in Utica hosts a vibrant Adopt-a-Family program where fortunate families can assist those experiencing hardship during the holiday season.

Wigwam Tavern Toy Drive

There’s an annual toy drive  at the Wigwam Tavern in Forestport. All toys are donated to the Forestport Fire Department and given away at the Forestport Light Up Parade in December.  

Cayuga Center Toy Drive

Contribute to the Cayuga Center Toy Drive, drop off location in Utica, NY: 430 Court Street, 2nd Floor, Utica, NY 13501. The Cayuga Centers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring children have a safe, loving home.  Learn more about the toy drive here.

The Center Toy Drive

The Center is hosting a Toy Drive to help welcome new families with children to our community. This month alone we will be welcoming 59 individuals consisting of 17 cases. We need your help to support new families with their children's needs. We will be collecting new unwrapped toys for children ages newborn - teenager. Pick up some extra items while you are out #holidayshopping and drop them off at The Center Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm at our Front Desk (there is a box designated for donations). Be a part of many cultures, one community. Discover how you can support The Center Toy Drive in bringing joy to children during the holidays this year.

Toys for Tots

The Marines have been at the center of this worthy program that makes sure all kids have a happy holidays. Explore Toys for Tots and contribute to providing toys for children in need.

Operation Christmas Spirit

Join Operation Christmas Spirit in supporting service members and their families during the holiday season. The family "adoption" program focuses on fulfilling the Christmas wishes of the families of our service members.

Other Worthy Causes in the Mohawk Valley

 

Christmas on Main in Old Forge

Donations for Christmas on Main can be sent to ACOM at P.O. Box 68, Old Forge, NY 13420.

View Arts in Old Forge, NY

Arts and culture have been at the center of View since its inception when founder Miriam Kashiwa organized an art show on her front lawn in 1951. Today, our arts center in the heart of the Adirondacks provides art exhibitions, community events, performances, classes, and workshops for all to enjoy and take part in.

View Arts Year End Appeal and Other Donation Information here

Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties

Community Foundation play a vital role in supporting and representing specific geographic areas by consolidating donations and establishing permanent endowed funds. These funds are designed to address both current and future community needs through the initiatives of nonprofit organizations. Nationally, community foundations have a rich history of providing grants for over a century, offering substantial support to communities of various sizes. In response to the dynamic nature of community needs, the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties has embraced a more adaptable and collaborative "community investment" strategy. This approach involves deploying larger-scale funding to tackle enduring challenges and better serve the evolving needs of the community. Learn more about Community Foundation’s work here. 

This holiday season, let's come together as a community to make a positive impact and spread joy to those who need it most. Whether through food donations, toy drives, or adopting a family, every contribution makes a difference in brightening someone's holiday. Let the spirit of giving shine in the Mohawk Valley, New York!