This holiday season, the city of Phoenix encourages residents to join Healthy Giving Friendsgiving, a donation drive for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

Rather than giving directly on the street, the states donations make a bigger impact when donated through trusted nonprofits working alongside the city’s Office of Homeless Solutions that connect individuals with shelter, services, meals, healthcare and other resources.

“Phoenix is a community where people care deeply about helping one another, especially around the holidays," stated Mayor Kate Gallego in a news release. "Friendsgiving turns that compassion into lasting action by connecting residents with community partners which provide critical services and support year-round."

The city’s Friendsgiving builds on the Healthy Giving initiative, which promotes safe, responsible ways to give back in the community, without creating negative impacts on neighborhoods, like blight or trash.

"Not all giving has the same impact,” stated Rachel Milne, Office of Homeless Solutions director in the news release. “Giving on the street may seem helpful, but when food doesn’t get eaten or items are left behind, it can have unintended consequences for the community. It also prevents people in need from getting connected to services to help end their homelessness. That's why, this year, we've reached out directly to local organizations and asked them exactly what they need so your generosity can make the greatest impact.”

The city partnered with nine local nonprofits that have shared the items they urgently need and the locations where they need the most help that you can volunteer at this holiday season.

Partners include A New Leaf, Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS), The Salvation Army, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Andre House, St. Vincent de Paul, Keys to Change, UMOM, and Valley Dogs Rescue. OHS also has volunteer and donation opportunities at the Safe Outdoor Space or the Turquoise Navigation Center shelter (formerly Phoenix Navigation Center).

Whether donating supplies, volunteering time or supporting any local nonprofit, your generosity can make a real difference. Be part of the solution this holiday. Explore opportunities, nonprofit wish lists and other smart ways to give back at phoenix.gov/friendsgiving.

Editor’s note: The above was republished from a city of Phoenix news release.