Seasonal & Holidays
Giving Back In Essex-Chester-Deep River: Local Causes To Support This
Celebrate Giving Tuesday all season long by donating, volunteering and spreading the word about these amazing local organizations.
Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, typically through charitable donations, volunteer work or acts of kindness. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While it's celebrated widely, the real impact happens when we do good right at home by supporting local businesses, causes and organizations working to uplift our own communities.
We've rounded up a list of some great organizations, causes and initiatives in the Essex-Chester-Deep River area. Please keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list — just a starting point for discovering amazing local opportunities to give back, not only on Giving Tuesday but year-round! Be sure to contact each organization directly to find out about their hours or the best ways you can contribute.
New London Area Food Pantry
The New London Area Food Pantry is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to providing groceries to those in need in the greater New London area. Volunteers are essential in various roles from food distribution to administrative tasks, and no heavy lifting is required.
Learn more: newlondonareafoodpantry.org
Find out what's happening in Essex-Chester-Deep Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Brookside Farm Museum
Brookside Farm Museum in East Lyme offers various volunteering opportunities, from serving as docents and community gardeners to assisting with research and cataloging. Volunteers help bring history to life, maintain the gardens and support educational programming.
Learn more: brooksidefarmmuseum.com
Valley Shore Animal Welfare League
Valley Shore Animal Welfare League, a no-kill shelter in nearby Westbrook relies heavily on volunteers to care for animals and maintain the facility. Volunteers can help with tasks ranging from animal care and socialization to grounds maintenance and administrative support.
Learn more: valleyshoreanimalwelfareleague.org
Find out what's happening in Essex-Chester-Deep Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries
The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries provide essential food assistance across multiple locations, including Essex, Chester and Deep River. Volunteers play a crucial role in meal preparation, food distribution and maintaining a welcoming environment.
Learn more: shorelinesoupkitchens.org
South East CT Community Center of the Blind
The South East CT Community Center of the Blind relies on enthusiastic volunteers to support the social, educational and recreational needs of over 1,000 legally blind residents. Volunteers can assist with activities like reading, clerical work, transportation and more.
Learn more: centeroftheblind.org
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