‘Tis the season of giving: Here are 30-plus metro-east charities you can help
For many metro-east families, the holiday season is synonymous with giving back.
That’s why the Belleville News-Democrat has compiled a list of charity organizations that can benefit from some help, whether that be through volunteers, donations or other assistance. We asked each organization to fill out a survey about their work and what’s on their wishlist.
Take a look at their responses. We hope you find a cause that speaks to you!
Did we miss your local organization or charity? Email mlammert@bnd.com with “Season of Giving” in the subject line to be added to the list.
Alton
Riverbend Head Start and Family Services
What does your charity/organization do? The role of Riverbend Head Start & Family Services is to educate children, empower parents and strengthen families by connecting resources and developing positive skills to meet life’s challenges. We work to build strong communities by improving the lives of children from low-income families through a two generational approach — providing services that support the cognitive, social, physical and emotional development of children from birth to age 5. We partner with their parents to overcome challenges such as drug abuse, physical abuse, homelessness, set a household budget, unemployment, underemployment and empower them to further their education.
How can people help? Anyone in the community can help by making a donation to support early education and family services, become a monthly donor to provide year-round stability, volunteer their time, share our mission with friends and on social media or giving in-kind items including coats and school supplies. Every contribution, great or small, can make a real difference for the children and families we serve throughout Madison County, Illinois.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? People should give to Riverbend Head Start & Family Services because their support directly changes lives. A large percentage of every dollar helps provide early childhood education, family support and essential resources to children living in poverty in the metro-east. These programs don’t just prepare kids for school; they strengthen families and the break cycles of hardship. When you give to Riverbend, you’re investing in the future of our community and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Mailing address: 550 Landmarks Blvd., 3rd Floor, Alton, IL 62002
Phone number: 618-463-5946
Website: www.riverbendfamilies.org
Belleville
BEACON
What does your charity/organization do? We assist families and individuals leaving homelessness and other crisis situations by providing some gently used furniture, along with other housewares, free of charge. In addition, we also maintain referrals to other agencies for those needing temporary financial help. Our service area covers Belleville, Swansea, Shiloh, Fairview Heights, O’Fallon and Caseyville.
How can people help? We are almost always in need of volunteers to assist with furniture and pickups of donated items. With that said, we are always looking for gently used furniture as the demand is constant.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We fill a particular niche in homeless prevention. Many times, after paying first month’s rent and deposits, there are insufficient funds to buy furnishings and housewares. We have been providing this service since the 1990s.
Mailing address: PO Box 23468, Belleville, IL 62223
Phone number: 618-416-4538
Website: www.beaconministry.online
Belleville Area Humane Society
What does your charity/organization do? At the Belleville Area Humane Society, we practice compassion every single day. We’re an inclusive, community-centered animal shelter dedicated to keeping pets and the people who love them together. Through proactive animal sheltering, low-barrier adoption, accessible services, and a focus on prevention, we work to reduce unnecessary surrender, support families in crisis and ensure every animal gets the chance they deserve. From helping pets find loving homes through our low-barrier, communication-based adoption process, to empowering our community through volunteering, we create pathways for people to make a direct impact. We provide lifesaving medical care, offer free TNR services, expand access to affordable spay/neuter, and keep families together through programs like our monthly Feed the Love pet food pantry and our SafePets crisis support initiative. All of this is driven by one belief: everyone deserves the love of a pet — and every pet deserves a safe, healthy, loved life.
How can people help? Our work relies entirely on the community supporting us. The most impactful way to contribute is through monetary donations, which directly support this lifesaving effort. Every dollar genuinely changes lives. We also rely on the compassion of fosters who open their homes to pets who need a softer place to land, adopters who choose to give our animals a fresh start, and volunteers who make our mission stronger every single day. No matter the role you choose — giving, fostering, adopting or volunteering — you become part of the radical compassion that keeps pets and people together. We can’t do this work without you.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? People should give to the Belleville Area Humane Society because your support changes lives -- for (both) pets and the people who love them. Every dollar helps fund our vital programs that keep families together. When you give to BAHS, you’re not just supporting a shelter; you’re changing the entire story for pet families and our community.
Mailing address: 1301 S. 11th Street Belleville, IL 62226
Phone number: 618-235-3712
Website: www.bahspets.org
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois
What does your charity/organization do? Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois is a youth mentoring organization that matches children facing adversity with caring, supportive adult volunteers. Through one-to-one relationships, BBBSIL helps children, our “Littles”, build confidence, develop life skills and create meaningful connections that empower them to reach their full potential. We service all of St. Clair, Madison, Clinton and Monroe counties.
How can people help? You can support our families this season by donating through our online donation page— just select “Adopt a Family this Holiday Season” under “Additional Information.” We will shop for and provide gifts for a family in our program on your behalf! We also accept cash, checks or Amazon gift cards, which can be dropped off at our Belleville office Tuesday–Thursday from 8:30 a.m. –6:30 p.m.. If you prefer to donate over the phone, give us a call at 618-239-4085!
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Each year we have many families in our program who could use a little extra support during the holidays. A large number are single-parent or low-income households, and this season can bring added stress. With a record number of children signed up this year, the need is higher than ever, and every contribution helps us provide gifts for each family!
Mailing address: 2900 Frank Scott Pkwy West #956 Belleville, IL 62223
Phone number: 618-239-4085
Website: bbbsil.bbbssecure.org/page/145013/donate/1
Caritas Family Solutions
What does your charity/organization do? Caritas Family Solutions is a human services nonprofit whose mission is to strengthen the social and emotional well-being of individuals and families to create healthy relationships, loving homes and strong communities throughout the metro-east and Southern Illinois. Services include adoption, pregnancy care, foster care, counseling, residential treatment for children healing from abuse and/or neglect, independent living for adults with developmental disabilities and assisted living and employment assistance for low-income seniors.
How can people help? Caritas is currently serving more children in foster care (than there are) throughout the Belleville region (1,684 overall), with children entering care every day of the year. While holiday gifts are appreciated, the needs are basic and exist year-round. Making a monetary donation provides the flexibility to meet these needs as they arise. Contributions can be made online at caritasfamilysolutions.org/donate or mailed to Caritas Family Solutions, 8601 W. Main St., Suite 200, Belleville, IL 62223. For more information, contact Ashlee Lambert at 618-213-8714 or Ashlee.Lambert@caritasfamily.org.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Social and emotional well-being is a critical component of healthy families and strong communities. Support for services provided by Caritas Family Solutions is an investment in strengthening our society by helping people of all ages to reach their full potential. Every day, our professional staff assists individuals, families, parents, and caregivers in creating loving, stable environments that provide a solid foundation for those in need.
Mailing address: 8601 W. Main St., Suite 201, Belleville, IL 62223
Phone number: 618-213-8700
Website: caritasfamilysolutions.org
Kiwanis Club of Belleville
What does your charity/organization do? Kiwanis is an international volunteer organization that focuses on improving the lives of children in our community. Any money raised through our fundraising efforts stays in our local community. We sponsor 3 local high school Key Clubs: One at Belleville West, one at Belleville East and one at Governor French Academy. Key Club is a student led international high school organization that helps develop leadership skills and instills service-minded values in its members.
Kiwanis Club partners with other local organizations, including schools, the YMCA and the Violence Prevention Center to provide resources and support to families in need.
All money raised from our annual Christmas Tree lot at the Skyview Drive In goes back into our community.
How can people help? They can purchase a tree from our Christmas tree lot, and donations gladly accepted. We are always looking for new members who are looking to volunteer their time to give back to the community. We meet the second Tuesday of every month at Danny’s Irish Pub in Belleville.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? All donations stay within our local community, helping children and families in need. Our sponsorship of the local Key Clubs help prepare high schoolers to become future leaders in service.
Mailing address: PO Box 153 Belleville, IL 62221
Phone number: 618-791-1999
Website: belleville-il-kiwanis.org/
Optimist Club of Belleville Foundation
What does your charity/organization do? (We are) a volunteer organization devoted to helping children by providing programs and activities to support and enrich children’s lives. The organization also donates monies to other youth focused organizations.
How can people help? We are always looking for new members to join us in our mission. Donations are welcomed to support our cause. The Optimist Club of Belleville Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible organization.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? The children are our future. Providing much needed support is essential for their development.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 636 Belleville, IL 62222
Phone number: (618) 806-5145
Website: Facebook.com/Optimistclubbellevilleillinois
Parent Teacher Organization for Exceptional Children (PTOEC)
What does your charity/organization do? We offer social events and have sports that compete in Special Olympics for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities from all over St. Clair County.
How can people help? Currently, we need donations and/or volunteers.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? People should donate to help the organization to be able to continue providing the services that the members look forward to.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 23424. Belleville, IL. 62223
Phone number: 618-580-0734
Website: ptoec.org
Project Compassion, NFP
What does your charity/organization do? PC-NFP has a two-fold strategy: Initially meeting basic needs, and then building relationships and providing stainable life skills training.
PC-NFP offers back needs support, providing basic needs items including diapers and formula, that are offered as a walk-in service daily. PC-NFP offers a Free Café with access to a full-service panty. PC-NFP café offers hot meals, both a mobile service and in-person. The Café allows women with children to sit in a restaurant-style setting and share a meal for free. This allows for a moment of solitude with their children and a different level of support while on the journey of understanding what is “next” for them.
The CRC offers a free laundry facility. Each week clients can wash two (2-4) four loads of laundry for free. PC-NFP addresses the effects of child trauma, grief and poverty trauma.
PC-NFP offers therapeutic sessions for individuals, families and children. PC-NFP created a space where we acknowledge the brokenness and harm that occurs while living in un-stabilized situations and/or considered homeless. This again offers dignity and support as they navigate the transition of homelessness and living in a state of impoverished conditions.
PC-NFP aims to address the disparity of need, support and humanity. We recognize that being less fortunate does not mean you are less human than anyone else. We create a space of support, teaching and healing that is missing from their lives.
PC-NFP creates an action plan of short-term victories. We do not call them “goals,” as that word is often overused to define “success.” We say “victories” as a way of celebrating small milestones such as getting the kids to school on time, saving money, applying for jobs and keeping medical or therapy appointments. Those are all a part of elevating that single mother and child by helping them reach the major victories of stabilization. Each client has an action plan that would allow us to track and measure their progress for 12 months.
Our FREE services to the community:
- Clothing Closet: 6 new/gently used items monthly
- Laundry Facility: Washing Wednesdays with 2 loads of laundry weekly
- Pantry: Meal boxes
- Diaper/Formula Bank: Diapers newborn/size 7 including wipes
- Therapy: Free trauma/family/individual therapy. Group sessions are available.
How can people help? Volunteering, monetary donations, hygiene drives and perishable and non-perishable donations
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Please donate via:
- CashApp: $projectcompassion
- Venmo: @PCNFP
- Online: www.projectcompassionnfp.org
- Make checks payable to Project Compassion, NFP
Mailing address: 6609 West Main St, Belleville, IL 62223
Phone number: 618-397-1790
Website: www.projectcompassionnfp.org
The Salvation Army St. Clair County
What does your charity/organization do? Serves the community with various programs and provides a space for community with spiritual, youth and fellowship groups.
How can people help? Volunteering, donations (please note “St. Clair County” on gifts made, social media reach — we have luncheons for potential donors and partners to learn about the programs we offer and get a tour.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We’re an organization that believes every individual has inherent value and we put money we’re entrusted with back into the community through our free programs like warm lunch program, two food pantries, emergency social service, youth programs including music lessons, open gym, etc. We partner with other agencies and groups to try to serve the community in the best way and utilize our collective resources to stretch dollars and serve individuals holistically.
Mailing address: 20 Glory Place Belleville, IL 62226
Phone number: 402-510-0265
Website: donate.stlsalvationarmy.org/campaign/729513/donate
Senior Companion Program
What does your charity/organization do? Senior Companions are older adult volunteers who help their peers live independently by assisting with necessary daily tasks in their homes and give a much-needed break to full-time caregivers. This program brings seniors together with other seniors. The companions provide supportive, individualized services to help clients maintain their dignity. The goal is to keep clients independent and in their own homes. There is no cost to the family or the client. The days are arranged to meet the needs of the family and client. Although they might begin as strangers, these seniors quickly become friends. Senior Companions must be 55 years of age or older, able to commit to 20 hours per week of volunteer service, be income qualified and enjoy helping others. They become part of a team of caregivers that can alert doctors and family members to new or potential health problems. But more importantly, they give a human, caring touch to a life that could otherwise be isolated from the outside world. In return for their service, Senior Companion volunteers receive ongoing training, supplemental insurance, reimbursement for transportation costs, a small nontaxable, non-reportable stipend, and the joy of helping others live independently in their own homes. Senior Companions are available in Madison, Monroe, Randolph and St. Clair counties in Southern Illinois.
How can people help? A financial donation goes a long way in supporting the program, which in turn could possibly be supporting your neighbor needing some extra assistance. The federal and state funding has diminished over the years, and we are only able to support the number of volunteers with what is in the budget. An increase in our community’s financial support would allow for additional volunteers to be trained and sent out. Why should people give to your charity/organization? Volunteering spreads smiles to both the Senior Companion and those in need of assistance. Being of service has a multitude of benefits for wellbeing and provides goodwill to the individuals in the communities served. Senior Companion volunteers report improved health after just one year of service. Volunteers reported decreased anxiety and depression, decreased loneliness, and social isolation, enhanced physical capacity and higher life satisfaction. Help others in your community who want to stay in their homes by giving financially to the Senior Companion Program. Donations made will help with the Companions’ mileage, meals and time of service. A monetary gift will show you care about our older adults and their dignity to stay active for as long as possible. Mailing address: 201 N. Church St., Belleville, IL 62220
Phone number: 618-234-4410, ext. 7023, or email kathleen.bilyeu@swic.edu
Website: swic.edu/community/senior-programs/psop/programs
Southwestern Illinois College’s Student Food Pantry
What does your charity/organization do? SWIC’s Student Food Pantry provides free food for students. It is supported by donations.
How can people help? Donate non-perishable food items to the pantry, Cup Noodle soups and individually-wrapped snacks to the free soup program. Purchase items off the pantry’s Amazon Wish List, available online at amzn.to/3M9kcQJ, to have them sent directly to the pantry.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? The SWIC Student Food pantry has a presence at four locations district-wide and has received more than 175 visits so far this fall semester.
Mailing address: 2500 Carlyle Ave. Belleville, IL 62221
Phone number: 618-222-5324
Website: swic.edu
St. Clair TNR and Rescue
What does your charity/organization do? St. Clair TNR & Rescue volunteers are committed to reducing the volume of animals entering our local animal control facility through low cost spay/neuter options, TNR, pet retention solutions and rescue/adoption services. We believe that one day they will ALL be home!
How can people help? We are in need of fosters for dogs and cats! We also need volunteers to work with cats and dogs. Also, we can always use Purina dog chow and Purina cat chow as well as flea and tick treatment.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? St. Clair TNR & Rescue is one of the only organizations in the area to respond to after hours calls when the police and fire department have animal emergencies. This is how most of the dogs enter the rescue (only if not claimed by owners). We also help a lot of cats get adopted through O’Fallon PetSmart with the help of volunteers daily. Our rescue does not discriminate. We take in dogs and cats of all ages, sick and well, with special needs and those whose need a little extra TLC. Your support and donations will allow us to continue helping animals in need in 2026.
Mailing address: 3067 Plum Hill School Rd. Belleville, IL 62221
Phone number: 314-339-7481
Website: www.stclairtnrandrescue.com/
Tapestry of Community Offerings (TOCO)
What does your charity/organization do? TOCO is a grassroots nonprofit that provides guidance and support to individuals overcoming hardship or transitioning into permanent housing.
How can people help? (Donate) gently used clothing and household items for our shop and pantry or monetary donations for our community empowerment programs.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? With our shop being self-sustaining (volunteer based), proceeds from shop sales and monetary donations are allocated directly to helping individuals maximize their independence and functionality.
Mailing address: 825 W. Main Belleville, IL 62220
Phone number: 618-257-TOCO (8626)
Website: www.tocofamily.org
Teen Court Foundation of St. Clair County
What does your charity/organization do? The mission of the Teen Court Foundation is to support the work of the St. Clair County Teen Court by providing funding, training and the recruitment of volunteers. Teen Court is an alternative approach to juvenile justice that hold the first-time non-violent youth offenders accountable through restorative justice remedies imposed by their peers. This approach emphasizes accountability and responsibility rather than traditional punitive measures.
How can people help? Individuals and companies can support the work of Teen Court by donating to the Foundation. Community groups can invite a representative to speak to their group about Teen Court.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? The Foundation’s financial support of the St. Clair County Teen Court enabled their success in working with teens referred by the St. Clair County State’s Attorney office. The youth who graduate from Teen Court do not have an arrest record. Of the 276 youth who graduated from Teen Court, only 11% have re-offended. These outcomes benefit the community as well as the youth who come before Teen Court. The cost to incarcerate a youth in Illinois for one year is approximately $30,000 annually. The cost for one youth to appear before a teen jury and graduate from Teen Court is less than $500.
Mailing address: 12 S. 2nd Street; Belleville, IL 62220
Phone number: 618-698-1858
Website: teencourtfoundationscc.com
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Belleville Diocesan Council
What does your charity/organization do? We provide emergency overnight stays at the Crisis Overnight Center and meals 365 days a year at the Hubbard’s Haven Soup Kitchen. We also provide assistance at our Outreach Center and we also operate a thrift store to support our mission. We help those throughout St. Clair County.
How can people help? We are in constant need of donations for dinner and breakfast: Individual packaged chips, cookies, donuts, fun fruits, other snacks and oatmeal. We also always need coffee, creamer, sugar and small-size personal care items for those staying at the Crisis Overnight Center, and, of course, monetary donations.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We are a faith based organization that works diligently with those in need to address the root causes of poverty to improve their quality of life. We “walk the walk” and your donations make that happen.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 3415 East St. Louis, IL 62203
Phone number: 618-394-0126
Website: svdpsouthil.org
Breese
Community Link
What does your charity/organization do? Community Link provides opportunities for choice, growth, and independence for adults with developmental disabilities. We have adult day programs in 4 locations in Breese (East and West), Fairview Heights, and at Clinton Manor in New Baden. We also provide homes for individuals in 8 Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) homes throughout Clinton County. We serve Clinton and St. Clair Counties.
How can people help? Monetary gifts can be made at commlink.org/give. Donations provide more opportunities for our participants to engage with our community.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Contributions create meaningful days and joyful lives for adults with developmental disabilities. Through the generosity of our supporters, we continue to create a community where everyone is valued for their presence and contributions.
Mailing address: 1665 N 4th St, Breese, IL 62230
Phone number: 618-526-8800
Website: commlink.org
Collinsville
Children’s Dyslexia Center of Southern Illinois
What does your charity/organization do? Dyslexia affects over two million children in the U.S. These children typically have average or above average intelligence. If their dyslexia causes academic problems, it can lead to emotional and self-esteem issues throughout their lives. Since 2002, the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Southern Illinois has been providing tutoring to children by highly educated tutors free of charge. In addition, we offer free Orton-Gillingham/Structured Literacy based tutor training that includes an onsite practicum with IMSLEC certification. Please visit readwithdyslexia.com to learn more about how the Children’s Dyslexia Center has impacted your community.
How can people help?
- Give the gift of reading by donating monetarily to the center. You can do this by visiting readwithdyslexia.com and using our Venmo account or mailing a check.
- Attend, volunteer, participate or share information about our tutor training or join our board of governors to help us create and host fundraising events.
- Donate center supplies: copy paper, expo markers, paper towels, toilet paper, disinfecting wipes and card stock.
Donations to support the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Southern Illinois are greatly appreciated and needed. The free one-to-one individualized tutoring for each child is estimated to cost our center approximately $7,000 per child per year. We also train, free of charge, community members who have a bachelor’s degree or higher and who love to work with children one-on-one. This is at an estimated cost of $6,000 per trainee. Your donation to our 501c3 nonprofit center will be acknowledged with a letter of appreciation for your tax records. Our calendar of events for 2025-2026 is located at readwithdyslexia.com/calendar. We hope to continue to plan and execute fun, family friendly events so the community at large can support children who want to learn to read but are struggling to do so.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Services offered at the Children’s Dyslexia Center can be life changing. Students move from struggling to confident/curious readers. Sponsorship income goes directly to providing tutoring-related services for children with dyslexia. You can be confident your commitment is going where it should go — to the children who need it most.
Mailing address: 417 W. Main Street, Collinsville, IL 62234
Phone number: 618-223-1308
Website: readwithdyslexia.com
Collinsville Food Pantry
What does your charity/organization do? We are a food pantry that fights food insecurity.
How can people help? You can help by donating time, money and awareness support.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We live by our mission statement to offer hope and a helping hand up to those in need. Supporting us supports the community
Mailing address: 2009 Mall St., Collinsville, IL 62234
Phone number: 618-346-1861
Website: collinsvillefoodpantry.org
Equipping the Called Foster Closet
What does your charity/organization do? Equipping the Called Foster Closet provides essential clothing, supplies and support to children entering foster care and the families who welcome them. By meeting urgent needs at no cost, the closet helps children feel safe and valued while easing the financial and emotional burden on caregivers. We also offer scholarships for extracurricular activities, group outings for foster families, a Christmas program to fulfill wish lists for children in care, money for school book fairs and more.
How can people help? We are in need of volunteers to join us sorting, laundering and organizing donations at the shop. We welcome any collections organized by your group, church or business for essentials such as toiletries, underwear and pajamas. Up until Christmas, we accept donors to sponsor children for Christmas gifts. We always welcome gift cards for our teens in foster care so they can make their own choices for clothes or fast food.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? When you donate, your support gives foster children the essentials they often arrive without and relieves the immediate burden on foster families. Every donation provides safety, dignity and hope to kids who need it most. These are some of the most vulnerable children in our communities and we serve all of Southern Illinois.
Mailing address: 850 Vandalia St. Suite 310, Collinsville, IL 62234
Phone number: 618-530-0637
Website: Equippingthecalled.org
St. John’s Community Care (Collinsville, Edwardsville, Highland)
What does your charity/organization do? We make a positive difference in the lives of people challenged by aging or disabilities. We accomplish this by providing dependable and compassionate support through direct care, advocacy, education and outreach to individuals living in the metro-east community.
How can people help? Volunteer to sit with participants in our adult day (program) and assist with activities!
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Older adults have taken care of us, it is time to give back to them. Caregivers need our support to continue to care for their loved ones and it takes all of us to make sure families remain healthy and can age in their own homes for as long as possible.
Mailing address: 222 Goethe Ave., Collinsville, IL 62234
Phone number: 618-344-5008
Website: stjohnscc.org
East St. Louis
East Side Heart and Home Family Center
What does your charity/organization do? Our mission is to invite individuals from varied backgrounds to be catalysts for change by providing them with opportunities to work side-by-side with each other on programs and projects that cultivate positive changes in their lives and their communities. We have two different programs — the family program and the housing program — where staff members and volunteers work alongside East St. Louis residents to build a better community. We offer monthly programs for seniors, kids, families and an active women’s group. We also have a thriving Neighborhood Association.
How can people help? Through donations and volunteering for monthly events.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? At East Side Heart and Home Family Center, the focus has always been, and continues to be, on people. We believe that each and every person has gifts to contribute and we hope to foster an environment where people can come together and use their individual gifts for the betterment of our city and our world. It is our hope that each of us can be empowered to become agents of social change in our lives and in our communities.
Mailing address: 700 Summit Ave., East St Louis, IL 62201
Phone number: 618-875-7295
Website: familycenterestl.org
Gateway Pet Guardians
What does your charity/organization do? Gateway Pet Guardians operates the largest Pet Resource Center in the region, including an animal shelter, pet supply retail store, a vet clinic, pet food pantry and more!
How can people help? We would love fosters to help us Clear the Shelter this Thanksgiving and give a shelter dog a break! Come to the Pet Resource Center on Wednesday, Nov. 26 between 2-6 p.m. and the GPG Placement Team will pair you with a shelter dog that fits into your home (cat-friendly, dog-friendly, kid-friendly, etc.) You also receive all the supplies you need for free, including food, bedding, crates and toys. To see dogs currently residing at the shelter go to www.gatewaypets.org/currentshelterpets before walking in.
For those who want to bring love home Thanksgiving weekend, GPG’s Pet Resource Center will be open to the public on Black Friday (noon-6 p.m.) and Small Business Saturday (9 a.m.-3 p.m.)! Adoption fees are waived for ALL pets residing at the shelter. Anyone who adopts a shelter pet Thanksgiving weekend receives one box (3 month) supply of Apex Plus brand flea and tick prevention (for cats and dogs) and an adoption kit.
Also on Black Friday, we are officially launching our Toys For Tails supply drive for Gateway Pets. That’s right, pop a present under our angel tree and bring a tail wag to a shelter pet in need! Participants can either get an ornament from our angel tree and buy a toy for a shelter dog or cat AND/OR make a general donation of critical shelter items. We are having our Toys for Tails program all through December. Wish Ornaments and Donation Drop Off is located at the Pet Resource Center.
We will continue waiving adoption fees during the month of December for adult cats and adult dogs weighing more than 30 pounds thanks to the Zach Schneider Memorial Fund as a part of our Homeward Bound for the Holidays! And if you can, all end of year donations will be matched thanks to our sponsor Ameren Illinois! You can donate at www.gatewaypets.org/donate
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Whether you give the gift of time walking dogs, opening your home to a foster pet, donating a shelter enrichment item or donating money to Gateway Pet Guardians, your gift saves lives! Since our inception in 2004, we have been changing lives of the animals we save and the people we assist. Our mission to end homelessness for animals in our service area cannot be achieved without working hand-in-hand with the community. Each year, we can see the decline of stray and wandering animals in the region. This is due to increased outreach efforts and the relationships we have built. Free spay and neuter services, emergency vetting, containment resources and simply a phone number of someone to call if they have questions provide pet owners the resources they need to care for the four-legged family members they love so deeply.
Mailing address: 725 N 15th St., East St. Louis, IL 62205
Phone number: 618-687-8007
Website: www.gatewaypets.org
Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House, Inc.
What does your charity/organization do? Our organization provides a food pantry, child care, after-school activities, job training, AmeriCorps, family services, senior meals and much more for the East St. Louis community.
How can people help? Volunteer to work at our food pantry, collect items for the agency such as diapers, wipes, winter coats and outer wear, canned goods and personal hygiene products.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? (They should give) to assist their neighbors and community members.
Mailing address: 1200 N 13th Street, East Saint Louis, IL 62205
Phone number: 618-874-0777
Website: lessiebatesdavis.org
Our Brothers’ Keepers of Southern Illinois
What does your charity/organization do? We do re-entry (assist men and women as they return to society from prison or jail sentences).
How can people help? We need board members (particularly those with a career or experience in finance, attorneys, judges and those with lived experience), donations of full-size hygiene items for our hygiene kits (shaving cream, deodorant, toothpaste, bath towels, wash cloths and razors), computer paper, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and paper towels.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Men and women returning from prison have immediate physical needs for things like bus tickets, backpacks, wallets, hygiene kits, clothing and food — but also longer-term assistance in finding jobs, getting rid of legal fees, finding parole approved housing, getting help for mental illness and substance abuse issues and establishing new circles of influence. OBK’s client specialists help with all of these things and more for our clients. We also offer weekly programs and services like open AA meetings, computer skills class, literacy instruction and Life Lessons class. Our recidivism rate is currently 6.2% for clients who have completed an intake — that’s far less than the state or national average.
Mailing address: 614 North 7th St. East St. Louis, IL 62201
Phone number: 618-271-7821
Website: www.obkministry.org
Edwardsville
Glen-Ed Pantry
What does your charity/organization do? Glen-Ed Pantry provides food and assistance to low-income families and individuals residing in the Edwardsville School District. Programs include: Food shopping every 30 days, fresh fruit and vegetable shopping every Wednesday, clothing and houseware shopping, back-to-school supplies, Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets, Pantry To You (home delivery for those who are unable to come to the Pantry), and (we are a) SNAP and IHEAP application site.
How can people help? Volunteering, and food, personal hygiene, and cleaning product donations are always needed and appreciated. Your financial donations allow us to purchase much-needed items at a reduced cost.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? No one should go hungry. A contribution to Glen-Ed Pantry will help us to continue to feed the hungry in our community.
Mailing address: 125 5th Ave, Edwardsville, IL 62025
Phone number: 618-656-7506
Website: glenedpantry.org
Fairview Heights
Hoyelton Youth and Family Services
What does your charity/organization do? We provide support services for every stage of youth and family development. We restore families, prepare youth for positive life decisions, help parents and guardians be better caregivers, provide wellness education and connect community members to necessary resources to help them heal from trauma.
How can people help? People can support our organization by making a monetary donation, shopping a child’s wishlist or attending or volunteering at one of our fundraising events.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Hoyleton Youth and Family Services was established in 1895 and for the past 130 years we have grown to become one of Southern Illinois leaders in providing emotional and mental health services for every stage of youth and family development.
Mailing address: 8 Executive Dr. Fairview Heights, IL. 62028
Phone number: 618-688-4727
Website: hoyleton.org
Illinois Center for Autism
What does your charity/organization do? (We have) a school for students with Autism (and) a day program for adult clients.
How can people help? (They can help with) food donations for the holidays.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We could use donations of food to feed our students/families in need for the holiday.
Mailing address: 548 South Ruby Lane Fairview Heights IL. 62208
Phone number: 618-398-7500
Website: Illinois Center for Autism on Facebook
National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias
What does your charity/organization do? We enrich the lives of people affected by ectodermal dysplasias by fostering community, providing education and support, and driving advocacy and groundbreaking research —creating a brighter future for all.
How can people help? People can help first and foremost by giving or by visiting our website to learn more ways to get involved. Donations directly support families who are navigating a rare and complicated condition, and they fuel the education, services and research that make a real difference in daily life.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? The National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias stands in the gap for families facing a rare disease most people have never heard of, let alone understand. When Mary Kaye Richter founded the organization in Mascoutah in 1981, it was out of necessity: her young son had been diagnosed with ectodermal dysplasia, and there were no clear answers. That same need for guidance and community still drives the NFED today. The foundation provides what families can’t easily find elsewhere: practical education, dependable support, financial assistance for essential treatments and a community grounded in shared experience. It also leads national advocacy efforts and invests in groundbreaking research that pushes care forward. More than 11,000 individuals worldwide have relied on the NFED over the years. Giving to this mission ensures no family has to navigate ectodermal dysplasias alone, and that progress continues for the next generation.
Mailing address: 6 Executive Dr. Ste 2. Fairview Heights, IL 62208
Phone number: 618-566-2020
Website: www.nfed.org
Freeburg
Fire Truck O’ Toys
What does your charity/organization do? We collect toys to make the holiday a little brighter for the hospitalized children of 6 children’s hospitals serving the greater St. Louis area.
How can people help? Donations of new and unwrapped toys at any of our collection sites — or monetary donations can be made at firetruckotoys.org (and Santa’s helpers will do the buying!)
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Any time in the hospital can be scary for kids. Being parents of Fire Truck O’Toys founder, Mackenzie Scott, we found out the same can be said for the parents. The gift of a toy helps to take away that fear and lets that child and family receive the warmth of the spirit not only behind this joyous holiday, but all year long as our donations are also used for birthdays, holidays or even just a much needed pick-me-up!
Mailing address: Fire Truck O’ Toys PO Box 209, Freeburg, IL 62243
Phone number: 618-578-8384
Website: firetruckotoys.org
Godfrey
Beverly Farm Foundation
What does your charity/organization do? Beverly Farm Foundation provides loving, caring homes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We provide our residents with physical and emotional security and a dignified quality of life, with opportunities and challenges, within each individual’s functional capabilities.
How can people help? Our year-end fundraising appeal is going on right now. Those wanting to help support our mission can make a donation at: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/year-endeb Those interested being a volunteer can learn more by visiting the volunteer page on our website: https://www.beverlyfarm.org/volunteering/ Those looking for a new career can apply to become a Beverly Farm team member by visiting the careers page of our website: https://www.beverlyfarm.org/careers/
Why should people give to your charity/organization? You will be supporting a caring home for our residents, with socialization, individualized medical care, healthy diet, physical exercise, education, recreation and meaningful work.
Mailing address: 6301 Humbert Road, Godfrey, IL 62035
Phone number: 618-466-0367
Website: www.beverlyfarm.org/
Granite City
Good Samaritan House
What does your charity/organization do? We provide shelter and support to unhoused mothers and children.
How can people help? They can help through volunteering and donations.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We are providing services to a sometimes overlooked group of people. Especially given the time of year, nobody should be forced to spend all day outside or sleep outside without warmth or access to meals.
Mailing address: 1825 Delmar Ave. Granite City, IL 62040
Phone number: 618-300-7255
Website: www.goodsamhouse.org
Highland
Leaps of Love
What does your charity/organization do? (Leaps of Love) embraces families affected by childhood brain tumors and late-effects of childhood cancer.
How can people help? Donations (you can donate online at leapsoflove.org/give
Why should people give to your charity/organization? You can make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate by giving what we take for granted.
Mailing address: 1005 Broadway, Ste. B, Highland, IL 62249
Phone number: 618-410-7212
Website: www.leapsoflove.org
Maryville
Got Your Six Support Dogs
What does your charity/organization do? Got Your Six Support Dogs, located in the St. Louis Metro East, empowers veterans with PTSD through expertly trained service dogs and a one-of-a-kind trauma resiliency program. Serving veterans across the country, our holistic, veteran-first approach supports lasting recovery by matching each dog to the individual’s unique physical and emotional needs—creating powerful partnerships that restore independence, purpose, and hope. We provide lifesaving service dogs to veterans and first responders with PTSD at no cost to them.
How can people help? Donations, volunteering and spreading awareness by sharing social media posts!
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Every donation directly funds the training, pairing and lifelong support of these service dog teams at no cost to the veteran. Your gift helps build powerful partnerships between dogs and heroes—restoring lives, preventing suicide, and honoring the service of those who’ve sacrificed so much.
When you support Got Your Six, you don’t just give a dog.
You give hope. You give healing. You give freedom.
Our brave veterans and first responders have sacrificed so much to all of us, it’s time for us to be there for them!
Mailing address: 6 Schiber Court, Maryville, IL 62062
Phone number: 618-206-5015
Website: gotyoursixsupportdogs.org
Mascoutah
Leu Civic Center, Inc.
What does your charity/organization do? We provide a wide variety of educational enrichment classes, low-cost athletics and community events.
How can people help? Monetary and technology donations and volunteering. Call for more information.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? We provide support for all learners: homeschool or private/public schooled. Our athletics are low-cost but high quality. We provide services to the community in a unique way and are constantly evaluating our programs to ensure we are meeting community needs.
Mailing address: 213 North Market St., Mascoutah, IL 62258
Phone number: 618-566-2175
Website: www.leuciviccenter.net
New Baden
New Baden Zion United Church of Christ
What does your charity/organization do? We have a food pantry, clothing pantry, Christmas angel tree, Thanksgiving baskets, backpacks and more.
How can people help? Help by serving as a volunteer, contributing financial support, donating needed items or partnering with us on community projects. Every act of support strengthens our ability to help neighbors in need.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? People should give because your generosity directly strengthens our community. Every donation — no matter the size — helps us care for neighbors, support families and continue the ministries that bring hope, compassion and connection to others.
Mailing address: 414 W Hanover St., New Baden, IL 62265
Phone number: 618-588-4135
Website: zionucc.org
St. Jacob
Partners for Pets Humane Society
What does your charity/organization do? We provide animal rescue and medical rehabilitation.
How can people help? Partners for Pets always appreciates foster and shelter volunteers to help care for our dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. We also rely on monetary donations to provide medical treatment for the thousands of pets we rescue and assist. Donations of supplies are also needed: 39 gallon trash bags, bleach, paper towels, liquid dish and laundry detergent, medical grade latex gloves and newspapers.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? Since 2003 Partners for Pets has provided rescue and rehabilitation to almost 30,000 abandoned pets in the metro-east region. We also host weekly public clinics to assist community-owned pets and their owners with affordable veterinary services. Our mission is to keep pets out of animal control facilities and to save lives by giving second chances through adoption.
Mailing address: PO Box 445, Troy, IL 62294
Phone number: 618-540-7387
Website: www.partnersforpetsil.org
Waterloo
House of Neighborly Service
What does your charity/organization do? HNS exists to uplift our neighbors by mobilizing community resources, reducing crisis-level stressors, and providing compassionate support that empowers individuals and families to move toward long-term stability, wellness and hope.
How can people help? donations and volunteering
Why should people give to your charity/organization? HNS provides timely support when it’s needed most. From financial assistance for unexpected challenges to food security, summer lunch programs, connecting people to resources and holiday outreach for Thanksgiving and Christmas, your gift — backed by private donations and grants — lets us respond faster and more flexibly than other organizations.
Mailing address: 217 W Mill St. Waterloo, IL 62298
Phone number: 618-939-8900
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/monroecountyhns/home
More organizations that serve the metro-east
St. Louis Area Foodbank
What does your charity/organization do? The St. Louis Area Foodbank provides access to nutritious food and resources to 12 counties in Illinois and 14 counties in Missouri through our mobile food distributions and network of partner food pantries.
How can people help? Whether you donate food or funds, volunteer or advocate with the Foodbank, you are making a difference for neighbors in your community. Visit stlfoodbank.org to get started.
Why should people give to your charity/organization? The St. Louis area Foodbank has provided meals and hope to neighbors in Southwestern Illinois and Eastern Missouri for 50 years. As the region’s largest hunger-relief nonprofit, we provide more than 43 million pounds of food each year to the communities we serve. The need for food assistance continues to grow, with 1 in 7 people, including 1 in 6 children in the bi-state region in need of food assistance. Your support stays local to provide nourishing meals to seniors, children and families in your community.
Mailing address: 70 Corporate Woods Drive, Bridgeton, MO, 63044
Phone number: 314-292-6262
Website: stlfoodbank.org
This story was originally published November 27, 2025 at 5:00 AM.