So it’s now November, and I think it’s safe to say that we can mention that ‘C’ word…Christmas! This year, I am wanting to encourage kindness by trying something different with my own children on the run-up to Christmas. I am going to do a Reverse Advent Calendar.
The reason why?
Because I think that the younger generations need to realise that Christmas is not all about receiving gifts for their own gain. That there are people out there in our communities that simply don’t have the basic essentials to live and that we can help them over the festive season by doing a Reverse Advent Calendar. Especially since statistics show that more people than ever are being forced to use food banks than ever before to get by and feed their families.
What is a Reverse Advent Calendar?
Ok, so basically a reverse advent calendar is a box filled with items that are suitable to be taken by food banks.
I generally start in November and buy a few extra items each week with my weekly shop. Buy one get one free and 3 for 2 offers are great for this! I also check my cupboards for items with good use-by dates.
PIN ME FOR LATER
What To Put In Your Reverse Advent Calendar
- Non-perishable food items such as
- Cereal
- Soup
- Pasta
- Rice
- Tinned tomatoes/ pasta sauce
- Lentils, beans and pulses
- Tinned meat
- Tinned vegetables
- Tea/coffee
- Tinned fruit
- Biscuits
- UHT milk
- Fruit juice
- Toiletries and sanitary items such as
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Shower gel
- Sanitary items.
- Nappies (not just newborn size)
- Simple clothing such as
- Warm socks
- Gloves
- Hats
- Underwear
- Nightwear
When And Where To Hand It Over?
I generally seek out my local food bank of Facebook or check out The Trussell Trust . You could also contact your local authority to enquire if they’re doing a Christmas Appeal.
I like to take my boys with me when dropping off our calendar as I think it’s important for them to see where it’s going and what happens to it. Also, meet the people who they are helping.
