As we all know, the holidays are coming up. Families across Jacksonville are decorating, list making, and spending time with loved ones. However, for some kids in our communities, Christmas might not be as special as others. This can be due to many reasons, but no matter why they can’t celebrate, it’s still that time of year to give, and why not to the people who need it?

One way to make others’ holidays more special is by donating. Organizations like Bright Holidays are asking that you donate to brighten another’s special day. Even if it’s not a lot, anything can help one in need. You can donate here [insert link] or even by mail—just have your parent send a paycheck to Bright Holidays, 7540 Founders Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082. For families that can’t donate, there are other ways to share holiday cheer—spend time together by bringing a child in need to one of Jacksonville’s light displays.

Several local holiday attractions offer a magical experience for children and are a fantastic way to spread Christmas cheer. Some places are: Girvin Road – Blackhawk Bluff—the Blackhawk Bluff subdivision comes together to put on a dazzling display. On any December night, crowds of people drive through this light display and turn up holiday music on their car radios. Deck the Chairs—more than forty American Red Cross lifeguard chairs will be decorated in coastal-themed designs and lights in Downtown Jacksonville Beach. This free event is a great way to experience the culture of Jacksonville Beach while enjoying the holiday spirit. Watch the sunset and enjoy the display near the Seawalk Pavilion. The Christmas Tree in James Weldon Johnson Park—check out the 56-foot-tall energy-efficient tree, which features over 78,000 L.E.D. lights and more than 100 ornaments. So even if you can’t donate, inviting a classmate or even a neighbor to join your family can create a lasting memory and remind them that they are loved and valued, even if it’s not by their family.

Now, if you made it this far and are still not convinced why this matters, giving back not only spreads kindness but also teaches kids empathy, generosity, and the value of community. By helping a child in need, Jacksonville’s youth can learn the true meaning of Christmas: love, giving, and hope.