10 Ways To Do Good in the Winter

How to stay warm and change the world at the same time.

Doing good in the winter

Doing good in the winter (everst / Shutterstock.com) 

Winter is here, and while outdoor activities in the cold might not be our first pick, there are many other ways to do good and stay warm at the same time. Check out our favorite ways to do good in winter time:

1. VOLUNTEER AT A SOUP KITCHEN

Nothing is more comforting than soup in a cold wintery day. For those who need it most, a nice warm meal can be a true lifesaver.

2. KNIT A SCARF FOR YOUR LOVED ONES

If you love knitting but already have too many scarves in your closet, surprise your friends or family with a handmade scarf to keep them warm. Don’t have knitting needles? Check out this this easy Finger Knitting technique.

3. DONATE WARM CLOTHES

If you have spare winter clothes, you can donate them to a homeless shelter, or to a project like The Street Store. Socks are one of the least donated, but most needed clothing items, so consider them as a great item to donate.

4. ORGANIZE A BAKING CLASS FOR KIDS

Baking is fun, no matter the season, and the added bonus of heat from the oven makes it a super fun activity to do when it’s cold. Organize a baking class for kids in a kindergarten or at a community center. Always make sure to keep safe.

A child learning to bake

Introducing children to the joy of baking is a delicious good deed (Stills Photography / Shutterstock.com) 

5. WRITE A LETTER OR SEND A CARD

Letters are always heartwarming, especially in the winter. Write a cute letter or send a card to a friend abroad - or even just someone you haven’t seen in a long time.

6. BUY SOMEONE A HOT DRINK

Pay it forward and surprise a coworker, friend, or even a stranger with a nice warm cup of coffee or another hot drink.

7. VOLUNTEER IN AN ANIMAL SHELTER

Winter can be especially hard for stray dogs and cats, so it’s even more important that animal shelters will get all the help they need. Find out how you can help at your local animal shelter.

Shelter dogs

These cute little guys are excited to hang out no matter the season (David Tadevosian / Shutterstock.com)

8. LEND A SPARE UMBRELLA

Keep a spare umbrella in your office for others to use if they forget their own.

9. HELP OUT WITH RENOVATIONS FOR LOW INCOME FAMILIES

A leaking roof can be a frustrating winter experience. If you know a low-income family that can’t afford to maintain their home, lend them a hand and help them patch their roof.

10. VISIT LONELY SENIORS

There are many senior residents who can’t go out in the winter, and a simple hour long visit in their home can really brighten their day. You can also help out with paperwork, or pick up shopping on your way.