A group of my friends and I have been doing a Secret Santa annually for years now. It’s one of my favorite holiday events, and I’ve gotten some gifts I still treasure to this day.

But my favorite thing from all of our Secret Santas isn’t a gift at all. It’s a memory from when we switched things up a bit at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With people all over the country struggling during the dark days of December 2020, when we still weren’t sure when, or if, things would ever get back to normal, we turned our Secret Santa into a donation exchange.

Instead of giving each other gifts, we donated to our giftee’s local food bank with whatever amount we could comfortably give at the time.

It’s a tradition we still keep to this day, alongside our regular Secret Santa exchange.

The fact is, it simply feels good to do good, and that’s what we’re going to talk about today. 

Whether you’re curious about how you can give a little back this holiday season or you want to learn more about the science behind why it’s mentally good for you, read on for our guide to giving back this holiday season.

A volunteer ties a bag filled with food during a Forgotten Harvest distribution event held at Woodside Bible Church, Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in Pontiac, Mich. (AP Photo/Mike Householder)

By The Associated Press

The holiday season is a time for giving thanks, giving gifts—and for many, a time for giving back.

Food banks, services that deliver meals to seniors and other US charities typically see a surge in volunteering between Thanksgiving and the end of the year. But there are good reasons to volunteer at any time of the year.

Researchers who study human evolution and social psychology say that giving back is deeply rooted in human nature. Volunteers say they feel closer ties to the communities they serve.

“When we feel grateful for all we have, that motivates us to do good things for other people who have helped us, and also to do good things for new people,” said Sarah Schnitker, a psychologist at Baylor University.

“There’s a nice upwards reciprocal spiral between gratitude and generosity,” often enhanced at holiday times, she said.

1 in 7 children in Michigan is food-insecure, but you can help feed families by supporting local food pantries and aid organizations. (Jacob McGowin/Unsplash)

By Chaunie Brusie

‘Tis the season of giving, and this year, donating your time and resources to local Michigan food pantries may be more important than ever.

Many local charities and food kitchens get overwhelmed with volunteers this time of year, so here’s our gentle reminder that it’s always best to call and ask what they need help with the most. You don’t have to physically volunteer to make an impact—many food pantries desperately need donations more than people to pass out soup and bread. And don’t forget that many food pantries are also in dire need of other non-perishable supplies, like household items (think soap, shampoo, or bottled water) and feminine hygiene supplies.

Again, always ask or check the pantry’s website for their current list of needs. Pantries can get overwhelmed this time of year, so if you’re trying to help, your job is to make their job as easy as possible.

In the spirit of the giving season, we wanted to know how Michiganders gave back to their community.

So, we recently asked readers to tell us either:

Or, to let us know:

I have to say, I’m truly humbled and inspired by the ways you all give back. Thank you for writing to us. Here’s what you said:

“I love to give money to CARES in Farmington Hills, since there are so many families in need of food assistance. I also give toys to Toys for Tots run by the Marines and Operation Christmas Child sends shoe boxes to kids all around the world.” — Dawn Behrens

“We help out through our church. We have a sharing tree plus a family who needs extra help. Everyone pitches in. Happy Holidays from Midland.” — Charlene Graham

“I’m a member of the General Motors Lansing Social Club. One of our activities is Community Service. December happens to be a busy month for our club. One morning, I’ll be at The Salvation Army, helping count money that was dropped into those red kettles. Another day I’ll be “selling” the spoof edition of the Lansing State Journal at the door of a QD store for the Old Newsboys annual sale. Finally, a week before Christmas, I’ll be joining a group of fellow members sorting and packing donated food items at the Greater Lansing Food Bank warehouse in Bath. It’s a busy time of the year. Sometimes it’s difficult to find the time to volunteer for activities that may be more work than fun, but you’ll find yourself with a very happy and satisfied feeling after you’ve completed each volunteer session.” — Larry Doyle

“I donate blood a few times a year. It only takes about an hour from checking in until I leave the facility.” — Scott Urbanowski

“I have crocheted 30 hats, scarves and ear warmers that I have donated to the giving box at my local library. I have also crocheted 10 scarves that have been donated to foster care kids aging out of the system.” — Linda McCabe

“My family decided to donate our whole Christmas to buy items most needed by our unhoused neighbors, like buddy heaters and sleeping bags.” — Jen Whaley

“Joined my local Mutual Aid Network. We have been providing meal kits to people who struggle with food insecurity, and we are having a Gratitude Gathering potluck for them (emphasizing indigenous food) this Friday. We have built a tremendous community in the last few months. We will continue to provide food for as long as there is a need and as long as we are able.” — Julie Vanderhoff

“The Strickland Center in Mount Pleasant! I love being a guest escort and walking the guests through the store to go shopping at the food pantry!” — Amber Loomis

“Volunteering for the VietNam Vets organization with their food bank, and their annual toy drive for 250 Vet families.” — JoAnne Jamrog

“I make meals for the police and firemen.” — Debbie Howitt

“I usually purchase $5-10 gift cards from a coffee shop and hand them out to those showing some type of acts of kindness. Believe it or not I usually end up giving away all the cards. Not a ‘big’ give back but it brings a moment of joy to some.” — Michelle Lynn

“Donated to Toys for Tots and visiting nursing/rehab centers with my therapy dog.” — Kara Malone

The landscape for local news is shifting fast. At The ’Gander, our commitment to you—and to Michigan—hasn’t changed.

To keep this work strong, we’re working toward a $3,500 goal by Dec. 16 as part of our final fundraising campaign this year.

Your support helps us shine a light on the decisions, debates, and leaders shaping Michigan’s future. We can’t do this work without you.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from The Associated Press and Chaunie Brusie. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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