Christmas awakens in many families the desire to help, but also a frequent question: What charitable activities can be done at Christmas that really have an impact? When we don’t know where to start, it’s easy to feel that our enthusiasm is not enough. However, thousands of organisations, schools (such as Casvi Villaviciosa) and community projects depend on willing hands to help out at this time of year.
THE OTHER SIDE OF CHRISTMAS THAT WE SOMETIMES DON'T SEE
While many enjoy gatherings, gifts and celebrations, the reality for others is very different:
- More than one million elderly people live alone in Spain (according to data from various social organisations).
- Food banks warn of an increase in families in vulnerable situations.
- Many children depend on charity campaigns to receive a toy.
- And the dining rooms social increase their activity by up to 40% in December.
This inequality means that taking action is not just an emotional gesture emotional, but a real social necessity.
CHARITABLE ACTIONS THAT REALLY WORK AT CHRISTMAS
To answer the question What charitable activities can be done at Christmas?, here are some practical, effective and easy-to-implement initiatives:
1. Donate food, basic goods or hygiene products
Food banks and associations say that December is one of the most critical months. Donating oil, milk, tinned food, nappies or hygiene products has an immediate impact.
2. Participate in toy and book drives
NGOs, local councils and schools organise collections so that no child is left without a gift. Educational toys and books are particularly valuable.
3. Accompanying elderly people
Visiting care homes, making supportive phone calls or sending handmade cards can brighten the day—or even the week—of someone living alone.
4. Volunteering in soup kitchens or social organisations
Preparing and serving meals, helping with sorting, or assisting with deliveries is a direct way to help vulnerable individuals and families.
5. Support for projects international
Many foundations work in countries with limited resources. Actions such as educational scholarships or contributions to children’s canteens have a real impact.
6. Participate in charity markets and events
They are a simple way to contribute financially while participating in community activities.
7. School solidarity initiatives
Educational centres are often drivers of charitable action. With this in mind, Christmas is an ideal opportunity for pupils to learn values through experience.
No one has ever become poor by giving.
CASVI VILLAVICIOSA: EDUCATING IN SOLIDARITY THROUGH ACTION
At Casvi Villaviciosa, solidarity is part of the learning process throughout the year, but at Christmas it takes on a special significance. Through the Casvi Foundation, the International Baccalaureate Programme and school projects, students participate in various initiatives:
- Charitable collections with a real impact. Every year, food, toys and basic necessities are collected and delivered to local organisations and international projects.
- Continued support for the Casvi Foundation in Piura, Peru. With initiatives that benefit the elderly, vulnerable families and children in situations of vulnerability, families in vulnerable situations and children in situations of risk.
- Activities for all generations and involving volunteering. Visits, accompaniment and community service projects that foster empathy, listening and active participation.
- Projects CAS from IB with a social focus. The students themselves design impactful actions that respond to real needs.
These experiences teach the students that solidarity is not a one-off act: it is a way of seeing and transforming the world.
SOLIDARITY IN CASVI VILLAVICIOSA
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the importance of solidarity at Christmas?
It is a force that reduces inequality, strengthens social cohesion and offers direct support to those experiencing a particularly difficult Christmas.
What are the traditions of solidarity at Christmas?
Donations, visits to elderly people, volunteering, charity markets and community campaigns.
How can the whole family get involved in charitable activities at Christmas?
Participating in collections, creating charity baskets, preparing cards, or collaborating with local associations.
How can solidarity be encouraged among young people at Christmas?
Through school projects, volunteering, real-life testimonials and community service activities.
What impact does solidarity at Christmas have on mental health?
Helping others generates emotional wellbeing, reduces stress and strengthens the feeling of belonging and purpose.
What benefits does solidarity at Christmas bring to society?
It strengthens social cohesion, supports vulnerable groups, and creates more empathetic and committed communities.