The Thanksgiving leftovers are gone, our pants are a little more snug and the largest shopping days of the year are now behind us. We been fortunate to spend time with loved ones from near and far, eat delicious foods that put us into a coma and benefit from great deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

But in the spirit of giving thanks or as a precursor to the upcoming Christmas season, wouldn’t it be more appropriate for us to donate money and material goods or volunteer to help the less fortunate or those in need than hit the stores for discounted electronics and toys? Western Tidewater certainly doesn’t lack residents with generosity, so we offer you the chance to make a charitable donation.

Starting today, Dec. 2, The Tidewater News will accept non-perishable food items, unopened toys and new or gently used clothes for donation to the Genieve Shelter — a non-profit organization that serves families and individuals attempting to escape domestic violence. Those wishing to give can do so between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

There’s nothing quite like the gift of giving, so we encourage you to take this opportunity to make this the best holiday possible for these women and children affected by domestic violence.