Giving Back this Holiday Season: Local Volunteer Efforts to Brighten Spirits Across Stafford

As we enter the holiday season, the Stafford community is coming together to give back. Students, families, schools, and local organizations are dedicated to spreading kindness and helping families in need through food drives, clothing resources, and acts of service.

At Mountain View High School, volunteers are already busy preparing for the American Legion Holiday Food Basket program, an initiative that brings together dozens of students, staff, and community members. Volunteers sort, pack, and load boxes filled with canned goods, pantry staples, and small treats. Once ready, the baskets are distributed to local residents. Seeing their smiles is a lovely reminder of what the holidays are really about, and students are welcome to join the efforts. Schedule updates are posted on the American Legion Post 290 of Stafford, Virginia's website and Facebook page.

Beyond the View, Stafford County Public Schools is also offering opportunities to help. The Clothing Connection provides free clothing and shoes to anyone in need. Volunteers can sort donations, organize racks and bins, or help pack clothing bags for pickup. The main resource is located at Rising Star Elementary School, and Stafford Schools has partnered with Germanna Community College to open a pop-up location on the first Saturday of each month.

Meanwhile, the Food Bank continues its mission year-round, but demand rises sharply in December, nearly doubling the number of families served during the holidays. Volunteers can contact Niki Jackson of the Department of Family & Community Engagement to assist with sorting and packaging donated food through the weekend meal bag program.

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library system is also doing its part through its Community Resource Centers, which offer free programs year-round. In December, they provide education and resources on financial literacy, health and wellness, and parenting. Additionally, festive and cheerful holiday events are held throughout the month, so be sure to ask your local librarian what’s coming up. These programs ensure that giving back isn’t just about donations, but about empowering others with the tools they need for the future and the hope to get there.

Teachers and community leaders across Stafford County are encouraging students to participate in these acts of service. Many say that volunteering not only supports others but also builds empathy and community connections. As the year comes to a close, opportunities to give back remain open to anyone with time, energy, or a generous heart. Whether it’s sorting food or organizing clothes, each small act of kindness adds up, creating a ripple of goodwill that carries far beyond December.