Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, and there’s no better way to show it than by giving back to your community. In Downtown Brooklyn, there are plenty of opportunities to spread kindness and make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s volunteering at a food drive, supporting local organizations, or donating to those in need, small actions can create big change. Check out these ways to make a difference this season and help ensure everyone in our neighborhood has a reason to be thankful!
Donate to Councilmember Lincoln Restler’s TOY Drive
The Office of Councilmember Lincoln Restler is collecting gifts for youth in need at five schools identified in their school equity initiative. Please donate new, unwrapped games and toys for ages 5-13 at CM Restler’s office at 410 Atlantic Avenue through Dec 12, or dropped off at the Borough Hall Greenmarket on Saturday, Dec 14. If any businesses or buildings wish to do a collection box, their office can arrange a pick up on Dec 13.
Give back to BAC
The Brooklyn Autism Center is currently accepting donations! This Thanksgiving season, help BAC continue to improve the quality of life for children with autism with a modest donation. Donate online or by check via mail to:
The Brooklyn Autism Center
57 Willoughby Street, Third Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Save lives by donating blood at NYC Blood Center
Renowned for their significant humanitarian contributions, the New York Blood Center’s Brooklyn Donor Center at 30 Flatbush Ave. provides lifesaving blood products, specialty pharmaceuticals, and expert clinical and technical services. Schedule an appointment to donate blood and save a life.
Help kids with their homework at Brooklyn Public Library
Do you have a strong commitment to increasing access to quality education? Foster a lifelong love for learning by assisting children in grades 1-8 with their homework at the Brooklyn Public Library. Training is provided for volunteers who are willing to provide tutoring in various subjects. Using library resources and directories is encouraged. Details.
Support the Arab-American Family Support Center (AAFSC)
The AAFSC in Downtown Brooklyn empowers immigrants and refugees with the tools they need to successfully acclimate themselves and their family to the world around them. The Center provides culturally responsive care, in-language counseling, and more. Donate today.
Feed the less fortunate on Thanksgiving
Next Step Community Church at 360 Schermerhorn St. is hosting a Thanksgiving banquet on November 28 and invites volunteers to lend a hand. Reach out to help set up the banquet and serve meals, or to provide general support in other ways!
Donate goods via DSNY
The NYC Department of Sanitation offers programs and services that make it easy to donate and support the community. Find a clothing and textile drop-off site near you, enroll your building in refashionNYC (a free in-building collection service for NYC residents, businesses, schools, and nonprofits), and connect with donateNYC.
Downtown Brooklyn offers countless opportunities to make a positive impact. From donating coats and goods to volunteering your time and resources, small gestures can create significant change. By giving back, you help uplift neighbors in need and strengthen the sense of community we all value. Explore these impactful ways to contribute, and let’s work together to ensure everyone has a warm and joyous holiday season.
