Share the Love this Valentine's Day

The big day of love is quickly approaching and while millions are searching for that perfect gift to show their loved one’s how much they care.  Love is universal and many are looking forward to seeing the warmth of love expressed via sweet sentiments in a card, a bouquet of flowers, a heart shaped boxes of chocolate, or other personal token of love; however others will be spending their day away from loved ones, recovering from abuse, illness, or disaster.  Therefore why not share the love this Valentine’s Day and show those in need a little joy and compassion.

There are a number of simple ways that you and your family can do to spread the love and ensure someone in need knows that they are cared for.  Be creative and think out-side the box, the person or persons you share your heart with this year may be closer than you think or may be someone you’ve never met.  Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Make Valentine treats and deliver them to children, the sick, or the elderly in a local hospital or care home.
• Collect food, warm clothing, toys, or personal care items for the needy. Deliver to shelters. Remember shelters are in need of supplies all year long!
• Organize a Stuffed Animal Drive and then donate them to homeless shelters, domestic violence organizations, and local police or fire stations to give to children in times of distress.
• Collect unused make-up, perfume, and other cosmetics or personal items for victims of abuse and/or human trafficking.
• Send a Valentines treat/care package and write letters to deployed service men/women.