Here are some ways to give back to the community during the holiday season.
The holiday season is more than just getting gifts and material things; it’s also about giving back to the community and people around you. There’s nothing better than spreading holiday cheer to your loved ones and seeing their faces light up with joy. This year, Columbia Town Center offers many events and opportunities for residents to share in the holiday spirit and uplift the neighborhood. Here are some ways to give back to the community during the holiday season.
Donate to the Howard County Food Bank
The Community Action Council operates the Howard County Food Bank and sponsors 14 food pantries throughout the county. The food they provide is fresh, healthy, and varied: sourced from local farms, grocery stores, and their own community garden. There has been a significant increase in demand for services at the Howard County Food Bank. All donations are safe, secure, and, most importantly go directly to those who need assistance during this critical time. Food donations can be dropped off at the Howard County Food Bank (9385 Gerwig Lane Columbia, Suite J, MD 21046). Donation hours are Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
To better serve the local community and improve ease of accessibility, the Community Action Council will have community service workers stationed at the Howard County Food Bank during the following extended times:
- Tuesdays, 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
- Wednesdays, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Thursdays, 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Check Out the Little Free Pantry
If you want to help your fellow neighbors in need, try donating to the little free pantry when you can. Located in Vantage Point Park, just off the main street, a few Columbia Town Center residents created the Little Free Pantry to help those in need. This free pantry has been quite helpful to residents whose disposable income has declined since the COVID-19 pandemic. When donating to the free pantry, please wipe down supplies, knobs, and door handles. Do NOT donate expired products or items in glass containers, as they could break when removing items. Some needed items include:
- Soups (pop top preferred)
- Mac and cheese, Granola, and Protein bars
- Packs of crackers and cheese
- Toiletries
- Juice boxes, Tuna, or canned meats
Participate in the Holiday & Family Fun Photo/Video Contest
Do you have a creative holiday idea for a photo shoot or video? Do you want to spread holiday cheer and fun to your fellow neighbors? Then, don’t hesitate to participate in the Holiday and Family Fun Photo/Video Contest this year. We want to see you engage your creative side and make some awesome content. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or any holiday, send us your best work of TOWN CENTER.
Just send your entry form and photo/video to [email protected].
Rules:
- Photo Files: must be at least 1MB in JPEG or PNG format.
- Video Files: must be no longer than three minutes and shot at 1080 dpi or higher quality.
- Entry Deadline: All entries must be received by Wednesday, 1/5/24, with a signed entry form.
- Prizes Awarded! The photos/videos will be judged and winners will be announced in our Enewsletter in January 2024.
THRIVE AT COLUMBIA TOWN CENTER
Town Center is one of the ten villages of Columbia, Maryland. Our Village offices are located in Historic Oakland, one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Howard County. In the heart of Columbia, Town Center’s residents enjoy living in an urban community in a suburban setting with close proximity to all Columbia amenities, attractions, and cultural activities. Visit us to learn more about our community at 5430 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044. Call us at 410-730-4744 or visit our website https://www.columbiatowncenter.org/