Nonprofits in Columbia Prepare for Increased Demand and Community Support Amid Holiday Season

COLUMBIA — Nonprofits Gear Up for a Busy Holiday Season

As the temperatures begin to dip in Columbia, with temperatures rising to a pleasant 69°F and a few clouds lingering in the sky, the holiday spirit is kicking into high gear. It’s a time of year that embodies warmth, giving, and community support. But not everyone feels the joy of the season equally. This is particularly true for the homeless population and those in need throughout our city. As the do-gooders prepare to roll up their sleeves, local nonprofit leaders are reminding everyone that there’s always a need for compassion, not just around the holidays.

The Spirit of Giving

This year, organizations like the Harvest Hope Food Bank and the Oliver Gospel Mission are ready to tackle the growing demand in our community. According to Georgia Mjartan, who has been steering the Central Carolina Community Foundation for a few months, community connection is vital. “So many of our journeys of connection to nonprofits begins with volunteering,” she says, reminiscing about her earliest volunteer experiences at a children’s hospital when she was just 13 years old.

The excitement builds for volunteers eager to give back, especially around the holidays when volunteer rates can soar by as much as 50 percent. Erin Rowe, who leads the Harvest Hope Food Bank, explains this phenomenon beautifully. “It’s almost a perfect storm of giving. During the holiday season, everyone wants to uplift their neighbors.” With kids out of school and rising electricity bills weighing heavy, the call to help is particularly strong.

Mental Health Matters

However, the holiday season can also evoke a mix of emotions for those experiencing homelessness, which is where organizations like Oliver Gospel come in. Chris Love, who manages the Men’s Center program, explains that it’s essential for volunteers to understand the complexities of their guests’ lives. “We encourage our volunteers to engage compassionately and to remember that many are facing their own personal demons during this time.”

With the needs of the community evolving, this year has not been without its challenges. There’s a noticeable shift in the demographics of those seeking help; now, more working professionals and individuals with degrees are finding themselves in need of assistance due to economic downturns. Love states, “We’ve seen more individuals who, just a few years ago, would’ve been considered within the norm, now facing homelessness due to financial crises.”

Unifying Under Common Goals

The impact of recent events, such as Tropical Storm Helene, has also led to greater collaboration among nonprofits to provide relief and sustainability. Mjartan reflects, “The philanthropic community has risen to the challenge, not only for immediate aid but also for long-term recovery efforts.” This unity is crucial, especially in light of the upcoming election year where political divides can otherwise separate communities.

Looking Ahead

As 2024 edges closer, nonprofit organizations want to ensure they sustain the momentum of giving. It’s a common sentiment echoed by Rowe: “Too often, resources dwindle after the busy holiday season. It’s imperative that we don’t forget the need persists even after the celebrations.” She encourages a focus not just on the holidays but on the entire winter season, emphasizing that many folks still need support well into January and February.

And it’s not just about monetary giving. There’s also an important conversation around the types of donations. Harvest Hope Food Bank often receives an influx of frozen turkeys, but Rowe notes, “It’s important to donate items that are genuinely needed, not just what feels good to give.” She candidly adds that some generous donations might even go against health regulations, so thoughtful giving is key!

Year-Round Compassion

In summary, it takes a village—and it is clear that Columbia’s nonprofits are ready to rally together, not just for the holidays but for the long haul. “Let’s not forget that people need support every single day of the year,” Mjartan states passionately. As we move through this festive season, let’s remember to open our hearts not just today, but every day. Because as Rowe wisely reminds us, “People need to eat the day after Thanksgiving—not just on Thanksgiving Day.”

In this vibrant city we all call home, extending our hands for a good cause can spark joy not just for those receiving help but for those giving it, too. So, keep your hearts and minds open, and let’s carry the spirit of giving forward into the new year together!