’Tis the giving season! Yes, it’s barely December, but I think even the holiday-averse can agree we need a little cheer and goodwill this month. If we’ve learned nothing else this year, many are learning to work with less and appreciate more.

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For me, this means looking at what I have (most of which went untouched this year) and filling bags to donate around the city. Between my exorbitant number of winter jackets and cold-weather accessories; pet food, accessories, beds and blankets my spoiled girl “grew” out of; canned goods I bought for a Friendsgiving that’s no longer happening; and unopened travel-sized toiletries I don’t need, I have a lot to give.

For those also in the giving (and downsizing) spirit, check out these quick links for donation locations near you:

• Hearts for the Homeless clothing donation boxes
• One Warm Coat donation bin locations, and how to host your own coat drive
• A wide variety of charities around the country, and what they need

More in the Philadelphia area:

• Winter clothing donations for shelters in Philadelphia
• Schedule a pickup or find a Go Green drop-off location
• Donate goods for the children of Philadelphia
• Sunday Breakfast Mission Rescue

If these donation locations are a bit out of your way, research charities in your area and see what they accept, are in need of most and where you can donate — you may be shocked by how many you find.

Feel free to post questions to Facebook groups in your area as well, as many members may be organizing drives and in need of donations.

If you have even more to spare, Good Housekeeping has a list of charities in need.

Happy giving!

— Angelique Platas, associate editor