Season of Giving: 5 Ways to Support Phoenix & Scottsdale This December

December in the Valley brings cooler desert evenings, twinkling lights along Camelback Mountain, and that unique Arizona spirit of community—now channeled toward helping neighbors in need. Whether you're a longtime Phoenix resident enjoying the mild winters or newly settled into one of Scottsdale's vibrant neighborhoods, this season offers meaningful ways to support individuals and families facing challenges. Here are five local causes that transform holiday generosity into lasting impact right here in the Valley.

1. Stock the Shelves at St. Mary's Food Bank

One in seven Arizonans struggles with hunger—a sobering reality in one of the nation's fastest-growing metro areas. St. Mary's Food Bank, founded in 1967 as the world's first food bank, now distributes 300,000 meals daily across Arizona through a network of over 600 nonprofit partners. Serving Phoenix and nine other counties, St. Mary's partners help feed children whose only meal may be school lunch, families choosing between rent and groceries, and seniors on fixed incomes.

How You Can Help: Organize a neighborhood food drive for canned proteins, pasta, rice, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, and low-sodium items. Volunteer at their Phoenix warehouse to sort donations, pack food boxes, or participate in their citrus gleaning program. Set up recurring monthly donations or donate citrus from your yard during gleaning season. 

2. Brighten a Child's Holiday with Toys for Tots

The Marine Toys for Tots Phoenix/Maricopa County program covers over 9,400 square miles, ensuring thousands of Valley children wake up to something special on Christmas morning. All toys collected stay local in Maricopa County and are distributed to children throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities. Drop sites throughout the Valley make it easy for residents to contribute.

How You Can Help: Drop off new, unwrapped toys at participating locations including fire stations, businesses, and community centers throughout Phoenix and Scottsdale. Focus on gifts for older children and teens—items like gift cards, sports equipment, art supplies, STEM toys, and electronics accessories are especially needed. Financial contributions help purchase toys for underrepresented age groups. 

3. Bring Joy to Animals at Valley Shelters

The Valley offers multiple ways to help shelter animals find loving homes. Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) in Phoenix is Arizona's oldest no-kill shelter, rescuing over 4,000 dogs and cats annually. Arizona Humane Society operates as the state's largest private animal welfare organization. Maricopa County Animal Care & Control serves the entire county with locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and an adoption center in Scottsdale.

How You Can Help: Become a volunteer or foster home for cats or dogs during the holiday season when families are busy with travel and celebrations. If you can't foster, volunteer at shelters for animal care, adoption support, or special events. Donate items from wish lists including premium pet food, toys, blankets, cleaning supplies, and medical equipment. Financial contributions support spay/neuter programs, emergency medical care, and behavior training that helps animals become more adoptable.

4. Support Seniors Through Meals on Wheels Programs

Multiple organizations throughout the Valley deliver meals to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA) serves Tempe and South Scottsdale residents, while YWCA Metropolitan Phoenix is the only Meals on Wheels provider in Glendale. 

How You Can Help: Volunteer as a meal delivery driver—routes and schedules flex to accommodate your availability, typically requiring one day per week from 9-11 AM. Bring family members along to teach children about community service while spreading holiday cheer to isolated seniors who treasure these visits. 

5. Give the Gift of Stability Through Homeless Services

The Valley offers comprehensive services to help individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS) provides 24/7 emergency shelter and created The Haven, Arizona's first shelter exclusively for adults 55 and older. St. Vincent de Paul operates the Washington Street Shelter and transitional housing programs throughout Phoenix. UMOM New Day Centers focuses on family homelessness with emergency shelter, case management, and workforce development. 

How You Can Help: Donate essential supplies including water bottles, non-perishable food, toiletries, blankets, and warm clothing for desert winter nights. Financial contributions support shelter operations, case management services, and rapid rehousing programs. Volunteer at shelters helping with meals, facility maintenance, or administrative support for residents working toward self-sufficiency. 

FAQs

What items are most needed by Valley charities in December?
Non-perishable food, bottled water, new toys (especially for teens), pet supplies, blankets, toiletries, and warm clothing for cold desert nights.

Can I donate online if I can't drop off items in person?
Yes. All featured organizations accept online donations and some offer Amazon wish lists for direct item purchases.

Do donations qualify for Arizona tax credits?
Many do! St. Mary's Food Bank, Phoenix Rescue Mission, UMOM, and other qualifying charities offer dollar-for-dollar Arizona Charitable Tax Credits up to $495 (individual) or $987 (couples).

The Heart of the Valley Beats Stronger Together

December reminds us that Phoenix and Scottsdale aren't just desert sunsets and mountain views—they're communities bound by compassion for neighbors facing challenges. Whether you're sorting cans at St. Mary's, delivering meals to isolated seniors, fostering a shelter pet, or helping families escape homelessness, every act of kindness strengthens the fabric of our shared home. That's the Valley difference—built together, one generous act at a time, transforming Arizona's spirit of independence into genuine community care.