A few days ago we celebrated Thanksgiving, and even now as the leftovers swiftly dwindle in our refrigerators and Black Friday purchases sit hidden — ready to be wrapped — it is important to remember those who have to make do with less during this holiday season.

Today is Giving Tuesday and is recognized as a day to donate to those in need. LaGrange College will be celebrating the event by asking for optional canned food or $5 donations at tonight’s Christmas on the Hill, so that is one option for giving. There are a multitude of dedicated charities here in Troup County too though, so whether you donate clothing to Goodwill, toiletries to Harmony House, canned goods to LaGrange Personal Aid or donate to any of the fantastic local charitable groups that are far too numerous to list here, the important part is the act of giving.

Donations are not limited to just physical items though. Many charities need volunteers to lend a helping hand.  Many soup kitchens need volunteers. Many local churches also need help organizing  annual winter events like coat drives and toy drives.

Speaking of toy drives, Toys for Tots will be collecting new, unwrapped toys from pedestrians along the parade route prior to the LaGrange Christmas Parade on Thursday. The LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce also charged parade participants one unwrapped toy along with their float registration, so hopefully many local children will be able to receive a Christmas wish come true regardless of what their family’s financial circumstance is this holiday season.

And, as we count our blessings once again in this time between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we need to remember to be thankful that we have been blessed with enough that we can share our blessings.