We truly love where we live. And loving our home means caring for the people who share it with us. That’s what makes living in Harrisonburg so special: our neighbors, families, and friends. They are the heartbeat of the Valley, the reason this place feels like home. From fall festivals to historic landmarks like the Stonewall Jackson Inn, community is everywhere.
As winter approaches, many in our community will face real challenges. This season calls us to show up with kindness, generosity, and presence. Below are meaningful ways to support our neighbors and care for one another throughout the colder months.
1. Support Families Facing Housing Insecurity
Mercy House — Harrisonburg
Mercy House provides essential support for families experiencing homelessness, offering shelter, rapid rehousing, and prevention services. Donating gently used clothing, furniture, or household items to their thrift stores directly supports these families. Participating in or hosting a winter gear drive — collecting coats, gloves, blankets, and boots — can also help keep someone warm this season. And if you’re able, financial contributions sustain this vital work year-round.
“Even small acts of kindness can make a cold night feel a little warmer”
2. Bless Local Children and Foster Families
HRHA Giving Tree Program
The HRHA Giving Tree Program connects donors with local children in housing assistance programs. By choosing an ornament and purchasing the items listed, you help ensure a child feels seen and cared for during the holidays. Winter essentials such as coats, boots, or pajamas are especially meaningful. You can also support foster families by preparing holiday care packages or offering gift cards to help meet everyday needs.
3. Care for Pets Without Homes
Rockingham—Harrisonburg SPCA
Thousands of animals rely on the RHSPCA each year for shelter, food, and care. Donating pet food, blankets, or cleaning supplies helps keep them safe and healthy. If you’re open to it, fostering or adopting a pet provides comfort and companionship during the cold season. Even organizing a small collection at work, school, or your gym can make a difference.
“Love where you live — right down to the paws and whiskers.”
4. Support Seniors and Nursing Home Residents
Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS)
Many seniors in our community experience loneliness during the winter. VPAS runs seasonal donation programs like “Soup, Socks & Sunshine,” which deliver simple comforts such as warm socks, tea, blankets, and handwritten notes. Coordinating holiday cards or delivering small care packages reminds seniors they are seen, valued, and part of this community.
5. Serve Hot Meals and Winter Essentials
Our Community Place (OCP)
OCP provides daily meals, emergency resources, and safe space for individuals in need. You can support their mission by donating winter essentials such as thermal socks, gloves, sleeping bags, or hygiene items. Volunteering to prepare or serve meals also helps deliver warmth — not only through food, but through presence and connection.
“Helping one person might not change the world — but it could change their world.”
More Ways to Help
- Volunteer at local libraries or cultural centers, like the Massanutten Regional Library
- Help immigrant and refugee families through organizations like New Bridges
- Join 'Adopt a Street' and local clean-up days to keep shared spaces beautiful
- Volunteer at thrift and resale stores like Gift & Thrift
- Help with community events, festivals, and downtown celebrations
Let’s Bring Service Home
Loving our Valley isn’t just about loving the landscape. It’s about loving the people who live here. It’s about neighbors showing up for neighbors — especially when the days get colder and nights get longer.
Choose just one way to give this season:
- Invite someone to join you, set a date and make it happen
”When we take care of each other, we take care of the place we call home”
By Stephanie Walker