The holiday season brings plenty of hustle and bustle across the Southern Tier, but it also opens up countless opportunities to lift up neighbors in Olean, Salamanca, Cuba, Ellicottville, Wellsville, and beyond.
Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or simply brighten someone’s day, here are five meaningful ways to give back this year.
1. Donate a Gift to Someone in Need
Even though regional Toys for Tots drop-offs have closed for the season, several Southern Tier organizations continue collecting gifts for children, teens, and families facing hardship.
Local churches — such as St. Bonaventure Parish in Allegany, St. Mary of the Angels in Olean, and Immaculate Conception Church in Wellsville — often run Angel Tree or giving programs where you can “adopt” a child or family.
For more opportunities to give, check community hubs like:
- Olean YMCA
- Salamanca Youth Bureau
- Cuba Cultural Center
Many maintain last-minute giving lists right up through Christmas week.
2. Donate Winter Coats, Hats, and Gloves to Operation Warm Hearts
Staying warm is a challenge for many local families, and new winter gear can make a world of difference for a child. Operation Warm Hearts, based in Olean, collects:
- New coats
- Hats and gloves
- Warm socks
- Other winter essentials
Operation Warm Hearts also accepts donations of your time and monetary gifts.
3. Support the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation
If you want your gift to go further, consider donating to the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation (CRCF).
CRCF manages dozens of local funds supporting everything from youth programs to healthcare assistance to community development projects.
Even small contributions help:
- Scholarships for students across Olean, Salamanca, Ellicottville, and beyond
- Grants for local nonprofits
- Emergency and hardship needs for area residents
Learn more or give directly through CRCF’s website.
4. Help Fight Hunger Through Food Pantries and Drives
With grocery prices putting pressure on many households, food donations are needed more than ever.
You can help by giving nonperishables or making a monetary donation to:
- Olean Food Pantry
- Salamanca Food Pantry
- Portville Community Food Pantry
- Cattaraugus Food Pantry
- Harvest Field Ministries in Olean
- Creekside Chapel Food Pantry in Allegany
- United Church of Ellicottville Food Distribution Center
- Wellsville Salvation Army Food Pantry
- Belmont Accord
- Mission Agape Friendship Church
- Bolivar Food Pantry
- Hinsdale/Ischua Food Pantry
Many local churches and schools also host holiday food drives — perfect for donating canned goods, baking supplies, or holiday meal staples.
5. Volunteer Time With Seniors and Homebound Neighbors
A little companionship can go a long way during the holidays. Consider spending time at local assisted living or eldercare facilities such as:
- Eden Heights of Olean
- The Pines Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center (Olean and Machias)
- Field of Dreams Assisted Living in Allegany
- Wellsville Manor Care Center
Reading holiday stories, singing carols, or simply chatting with residents can brighten their entire week.
Many area churches also coordinate holiday meal deliveries to homebound neighbors. They often need volunteers for cooking, packing, or delivering meals.
This Season, Small Gestures Make a Big Difference
Whether you’re giving time, food, warm clothing, or a small donation, each act of kindness strengthens the Southern Tier community.
If you’re able, consider choosing one — or even two — ways to give back and help spread comfort and joy this holiday season.
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