Giving back in Central Ohio: local charities to support this season
A season for gratitude and giving
As the holidays approach, it’s easy to get swept up in the shopping lists and celebrations. But for many in our community, this season can also bring added stress — from food insecurity to housing challenges. The good news? Columbus is full of organizations making a difference every single day.
Whether you’re hoping to volunteer with family, donate essentials, or support a cause you care about, there’s no shortage of ways to spread kindness close to home. Here are some of our favorite local organizations leading the way this season.
Mid-Ohio Food Collective
No one should go hungry during the holidays — or any time of year. The Mid-Ohio Food Collective (formerly the Mid-Ohio Foodbank) helps families across 20 counties access nutritious food and essential resources.
How to help:
Host a neighborhood food drive or drop off canned goods at one of their partner pantries.
Donate funds — every dollar helps provide up to $9 in groceries to local families.
Volunteer in the distribution center, kitchen, or farm.
Learn more: mofc.org
Habitat for Humanity – MidOhio
This season, give the gift of home. Habitat for Humanity – MidOhio works year-round to build safe, affordable housing for local families — and you don’t need construction experience to help.
How to help:
Join a build day as an individual or group volunteer.
Donate gently used furniture or appliances to the Habitat ReStore.
Sponsor a project or contribute to the Women Build initiative.
Learn more: habitatmidohio.org
Star House
Every night in Columbus, hundreds of youth experience homelessness. Star House provides 24/7 support, a safe place to rest, and pathways to stability for young people ages 14–24.
How to help:
Volunteer to serve meals, organize supplies, or mentor residents.
Donate hygiene products, coats, or cold-weather essentials.
Support their mission financially to help maintain year-round services.
Learn more: starhouse.us
The Salvation Army of Central Ohio
A holiday classic for good reason — The Salvation Army runs several local programs to help families in need, from Christmas toy drives to utility assistance.
How to help:
Adopt an “Angel Tree” child and provide gifts this season.
Volunteer as a bell ringer to raise funds for local programs.
Donate online or through workplace giving.
Learn more: salvationarmycentralohio.org
CHA Animal Shelter
Giving back doesn’t just have to involve people — our four-legged friends need love, too. CHA Animal Shelter in Westerville rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes dogs and cats across Central Ohio.
How to help:
Volunteer to walk dogs, clean kennels, or assist with adoptions.
Donate supplies like pet food, blankets, or toys.
Foster a pet for the holidays to give them a warm temporary home.
Learn more: chaanimalshelter.org
Columbus Relief
Serving the homeless community with dignity and care, Columbus Relief provides meals, hygiene items, and support services to individuals living on the streets. Their mobile relief bus reaches people directly where they are — offering compassion and connection.
How to help:
Volunteer on a Saturday outreach event.
Donate clothing, socks, or winter gear.
Contribute funds to help stock their relief bus and kitchen.
Learn more: columbusrelief.org
Community Shelter Board
The Community Shelter Board leads coordinated efforts to end homelessness in Central Ohio through emergency shelters, housing assistance, and prevention programs. Their collaborative model supports more than 16,000 people annually.
How to help:
Volunteer for meal prep or event assistance.
Give monthly to provide consistent support year-round.
Organize a company donation drive for household essentials.
Learn more: csb.org
Small acts, big impact
You don’t have to volunteer every weekend or write a big check to make a difference. Sometimes, it’s the small things — donating gently used coats, baking cookies for a neighbor, or simply checking in on someone who lives alone — that create the biggest ripple effect.
This season, let’s celebrate what makes Central Ohio special: a community that shows up for each other.
Community focused.
We know home is more than a place — it’s a feeling of safety, connection, and belonging. Giving back reminds us how powerful that feeling can be.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved or support local causes this season, reach out — we’re happy to connect you with organizations doing incredible work in our neighborhoods.
Office: 614-457-4000 ext. 116
Mobile: 614-563-9819
Email: jill@beckettrg.com
