10 Nonprofits Collecting Holiday Donations

Long Islanders may feel the tug to give even stronger this year after witnessing the devestating effects suffered by our region after Hurricane Sandy. Here is a list of local organizations that you can contribute to.

1. The North Shore Youth Council supports youths and families with programs such as child care and big buddy/little buddy. Donations may be made on their web site.

2. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, well known pioneers in research and treatment of children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases, denies no child treatment based on race, religion or a family's ability to pay. Donations can be made online.

3. Angela's House, a Hauppauge-based nonprofit with a new facility under construction in Stony Brook, assists families caring for medically frail children living at home with their parents or in special homes that offer 24 hour nursing support. Donations can be made online or by attending one of the many local events that are held to support this cause.

4. Whether you see them during football games or just walking down the street, the Salvation Army's red kettles are ubiquitous this time of year. If you can find one, they have a family store in Patchogue and accept monetary donations online.

5. Goodwill collects clothing and other goods year round. The nearest center is in Centereach.

6. Save-A-Pet is always looking for donors to keep the shelter operating. They have many holiday programs, including pictures with Santa, to raise funds at the end of the year.

7. The American Red Cross, founded in 1881, is one of the nation’s largest emergency response organizations. It offers humanitarian care to the victims of war and devastating natural disasters. Online donations accepted.

8. Located in Smithtown, The Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind provides guide dogs free of charge to blind people who seek enhanced mobility and independence. The foundation began in 1946 and is supported entirely by donations from individuals, corporations and charitable foundations. Monetary donations can be made online or you might even consider volunteering to raise a foundation puppy.

9. Long Island Cares food and pet pantries are always in need of donations, especially during the holidays. Founded in 1980 by the late singer/songwriter, Harry Chapin, it provides food and support services for more than 540 community-based member agencies including food pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, child care programs, disability organizations, veteran’s services, and more. Check their website to see the variety of manners in which you can help.

10. Our Daily Bread soup kitchen based out of St. James RC Church is continually accepting donations to support its weekly dinners and food giveaways.