TOLEDO, Ohio — We kicked off the holiday season by giving thanks, and now it's time to give back to your communities.
On Giving Tuesday (preceded by Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday), generosity is encouraged. People recognize the day by donating to charities and non-profits.
And at the East Toledo Family Center donations will be matched by up to $5,000 from the Toledo Refining Company.
East Toledo Family Center Executive Director Jodi Gross said the annual day of giving means a lot to them.
"People give to nonprofits on this day. And it's even more special because it's a global movement. The generosity of our community really makes sure we make it to the end of the year," said Gross.
The donations help families, youth and seniors in Toledo.
This year they are hoping the community gives anything they can, but monetary donations are encouraged.
"We have a website for Giving Tuesday. There are lots of ways to give. The Toledo Refining Company gave us an end-of-year donation and we are putting that toward giving Tuesday. So, it will encourage people to give back," said Gross.
Gross said knowing they have community partners that are eager to help is important to them.
"We can't do this by ourselves. Everyone knows it takes a village," said Gross.
The ETFC Donation room is filled with toys food and more. Gross said they host donation drives all year round. the most recent drive is the adopt a family drive which serves up to 200 families every year. You can drop off donations throughout this week for the currently active drive and families will receive the support next week.