Jk, giving back never goes out of style.
Last week, we gave you some ideas for gifts that have a uniquely L.A. bent. But perhaps you're feeling altruistic this year and want to add giving back to your community to your list of holiday to-do's.
Here are some ways to share the spirit locally:
1. Donate a book to kids in need
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, 19.9 percent of children in the Golden State lived in families who couldn't make ends meet in 2016. Better With Books provides age-appropriate literature to just such kids -- sign up to help them set up their holiday book drive on Dec. 23, or donate some of your favorite kids' reading materials.
2. Host a donation party for baby items
Want to give back to the littlest guys this season? Host a donation party through Baby2Baby, which gathers items for infants, kids and families.
3. Buy a gift for a differently abled Angeleno
Hope House for the Multiple Handicapped Inc. helps people with co-occurring autism, intellectual disabilities and mental health issues. Their residents have compiled a wish list for the holidays with gifts ranging from dominos to a fedora hat to a body pillow, and you can purchase and send one directly.
4. Help a rescued pit bull
Pitties are still among the breeds most commonly dropped off at shelters, and it's no different here in L.A. Consider donating to Angel City Pit Bulls, which helps to rehab the loving animals and find them forever homes.
5. Provide underserved L.A. kids with toys
The Los Angeles Fire Department and ABC7 have partnered to put on a toy drive for kids in need. Spark of Love needs financial donations and toys, which can be dropped off at your local fire station.
6. Assist sick children from low-income families
Children's Hospital Los Angeles provides a way for you to give to kids whose families are facing financial hardships, but who may be suffering from acute or chronic illness.
7. Toys for Tots: a list of locations
Toys for Tots is one of the largest opportunities to give toys to children whose families can't otherwise afford them. Click here for a list of where you can drop off donations locally.
8. Adopt-A-Family for the holidays
Families Forward Learning Center lets you give gifts and a holiday meal for a whole family. They provide services to low-income folks in Pasadena with young kids.
9. Put your art to work
The Art of Elysium pairs artists with communities or individuals in need, bringing the healing power of art as far and wide as possible. Donate your time, your talent or your money to help keep these programs going.
Don't see what you want here? Check out our list of ongoing efforts to help victims of the Woolsey fire, or read up at Big Sunday for a looong list of other ways to give this holiday season.
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