What Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Are Available in Reading?

Looking for opportunities to give back around the holiday season in Reading? There may be a few options for you.

According to the Pleasant Street Senior Center website, the town is always looking for Holiday Helpers to volunteer their services. This role asks for two hours per month from October to January with about two hours of time commitment required each month.

Holiday Helpers are asked to "help prepare mailings, return phone calls, distribute gifts, food baskets and/or meals for our holiday programs," according to the website.

On Saturday at 12:15 p.m. the Senior Center hosts its annual Thanksgiving lunch on Pleasant Street followed by a dinner free of charge for seniors at Hillview Country Club, according to a listing in the Daily Times Chronicle.

In order to check for volunteer opportunities, or to make reservations for a senior, residents can call (781) 942-6794.

Reading Adopt-a-Family is an organization in town that will be busy around the holidays. The group matches families anonymously with donors who provide a basket or box filled with potatoes, stuffing, and other Thanksgiving staples. Recipients in need pick up the boxes and take them home to cook their meals.

At Christmas time Adopt-a-Family gathers gifts for children using the same anonymous system.

The organization is not actively seeking more donations at the time, but can sign up for next year's mailing list by emailing readingaaf@gmail.com.