The snow has fallen, trees have gone up, candles have been lit, and much of the holiday spirit is in full swing in Ulster County. While it is a time to give back, and spend time with family and friends doing the heart of this holiday season, this year will likely look different for many in our community. As 2020 has proven to be a trying and difficult year for the majority of our community, there are ways you can help to connect with both your family and community, and help spread some holiday joy to those who may have struggled this year. Even the smallest of gestures can make a big difference to someone’s holiday season. As the local Ulster County communities are tightly knit, a large draw to those wanting to make Ulster County their home, becoming a part of the community is just as important, and incredibly rewarding. 

Donate to the local community: As highlighted in our previous blog, the UCBR is committed to giving back to our local Ulster County communities through volunteering, donating crucial seasonal items, and raising awareness of local initiatives that help give back to those in need right here in Ulster County. In addition to our own community service initiatives, there are other ways to participate in the community this season to help those in need. Something as simple as dropping off needed supplies to local food banks, donating warm winter clothes to local charities, stopping by your local grocery store and donating canned goods, volunteering your time to serve warm meals or drop off goods to families in need are all ways to contribute and make a difference right here in Ulster County. Even if you only have a couple hours to volunteer, or can only give a small donation, every bit helps, and makes a huge difference to those in need this holiday season.

Have virtual gatherings: It’s likely that this year’s traditional festive gatherings, and family and friends coming together from all over is not in the cards this year. As we see an increase in COVID-19 cases, we are hunkering down in our respected homes, and being socially distanced this holiday season. These unusual circumstances might be more difficult for those who may be stuck on their own, or far from their families this year. Make a point of putting together virtual holiday gatherings this year, and reaching out to those family & friends that are unable to be with their loved one this season. Having a virtual holiday cookie making session, virtual holiday cocktail hour, or a virtual opening of presents or decorating the tree, is a fun way to connect with those who are important to us in a fun, festive and safe environment. While we hope that next year will be different than now, being creative in spreading the holiday spirit will make it feel almost as real as if we were able to be gathered together. 

Help out a neighbor or friend who may be struggling this season: While we all have likely had our ups and downs this year, and are looking forward to the new year, there are many that likely have felt the repercussions more than ourselves. Those that are older, have lost their jobs, or haven’t been able to see their family and friends might find this holiday season a little bit harder than others. Simple things like picking up the phone, mailing a holiday card, dropping off a home cooked meal, a batch of holiday cookies, or a small gift can go a long way in brightening up someone’s day and holiday season. It’s not always the biggest gift, but taking the time and effort to make sure your local community members feel appreciated this holiday season that makes the biggest difference.