The real meaning of the festive season, the season of good cheer, lies in giving, especially to provide some assistance to those who need help for their daily survival and don’t have the material resources to share in the joy of the season.

True goodwill efforts take place without any prejudice, discrimination or haughtiness. The festive season should therefore be about spreading goodwill and good cheer.

Purpose

The hundreds of so called Santa letters written by children are sad evidence of the many unmet needs of families and individuals during the festive and holiday times. Research by social service organisations has shown that the festive season also happens to be a time for depression among the have-nots, among the lonely, among people with problems and others who just don’t have the means and resources to enjoy the merriment of the holidays.

Those who care

On 5 December, the world celebrates International Volunteers Day, a fitting day for this time of year. Thankfully there are many volunteers and charitable efforts carried out by groups and corporations that seek to fulfil the needs of children and adults during the festive season. Organisations and groups provide food and shelter to the homeless, the hungry and to alcoholics in need of recovery services.

Individuals also play a big role and donate toys and gifts through their companies, other business enterprises such as supermarkets or through their local municipality. These groups usually all have a box or an area where new toys or clothing can be dropped off. The items are then donated to families in need or to social service providers for distribution to the needy.

What about you?

Do you care enough for other people to share cheer and goodwill with them? Here’s what you can do:

    • Find out from your community or church leaders where the biggest needs are
    • Decide on where or to whom you would like to make a difference
    • Discuss the need with your family and friends and encourage them to contribute to the cause. The more people you get involved, the bigger the difference you can make
    • Arrange for the delivery of the money or items in such a way that you don’t impair the receiver’s human dignity.

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to know more about a time of goodwill.