Giving Back For the Holidays in Tarpon Springs

A number of local organizations are seeking help from the Tarpon Springs community to make the holiday season brighter for those who are less fortunate. 

Choose an opportunity from this roundup of good deeds to spread some holiday cheer.

Organizers are looking for donations for kids ages 5-14. Clothing items are encouraged, as the group has already received multiple amounts of stuffed animals.

• Sunset Hills Elementary School Lambatha Sale

Be a part of Tarpon Springs tradition and purchase a lambatha for $2. Monies raised from the sale will go back into the school. These local establishments are good spots for picking up lambathas.

• Artistic Studio 30's Toy Drive

The gallery is hosting a Toys for Tots drive through Dec. 11. Drop off an unwrapped, new toy at the Tarpon Springs location. Toys should be appropriate for children up to age 12. 

• Christmas Tree Sales

Instead of purchasing your tannenbaum from a major retailer, visit a local tree farm instead. The organizations that benefit from the sales are close to home.

• The Shepherd Center of Tarpon Springs

Shuffle through your drawers, closets and storage spaces. If you haven't used it in more than a year, you might want to consider donating it. Drop-off hours at the Shepherd Center are: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Canned goods and non-perishables are also accepted.

• Pinellas County Animal Services Wish List

Drop off any of the following items to the front desk at Pinellas County Animal Services:

• Unopened cans or bagged cat and dog food
• Pet toys
• Leashes
• Collars
• Pet beds
• Crates of various sizes
• Cat condos
• Bleach
• Towels
• Blankets
• Newspapers
• Ink cartridges for computer printers (call to ask specifics)

• Florida Hospital North Pinellas' Auxiliary Tree

Ornament donations are being accepted at the hospital. For more information, call the volunteer office at 727-942-2558.

• Panera Bread Wish Tree

Visit the Tarpon Springs location and check out the ornaments on their Christmas tree. Each ornament has a Moffitt Cancer Center patient's name along with an item from their wish list. By taking the ornament, you're committing to purchasing that gift and dropping it off at Panera Bread before the holidays. When you return with the gift, show the cashier and you'll receive a free holiday cookie.

Know of another good cause to donate to in Tarpon Springs? Share it with us in the comments below.