The Celts considered generosity and kinship as sacred duties, especially during the long winter months when sticking together was a matter of survival. Sharing food, warmth, and kindness was at the heart of their celebrations. That same spirit lives on today through many charitable causes across the Celtic nations. Consider giving back in your own area by volunteering, donating, or just reaching out to someone in need. Here are a few ideas to get started.

Scotland
The 12 Dips of Christmas
Participants brave cold-water swims over the holiday season to raise funds for VOCAL, a charity supporting unpaid carers. Safety tips are given in sessions by cold water therapists for extra security. It’s a refreshing way to improve one’s own wellbeing and give back to Scotland’s caregiving network this Christmas.

Ireland
Blackrock College Christmas Trees for St. Vincent de Paul
For 28 years, students and volunteers at Blackrock College have sold Christmas trees to raise funds for St. Vincent de Paul. What began with two students and an inspired idea has grown into one of Ireland’s biggest charity tree sales, spreading holiday cheer while supporting families in need.

Wales
Crisis at Christmas
Each December, volunteers with Crisis help provide hot meals, essentials, and companionship to people experiencing homelessness. From cooking and deliveries to personal grooming and advice for general well-being, the smallest act of service matters. The charity’s Christmas programme seeks to provide warmth with dignity at one of the hardest times of the year.

Cornwall
Sing It Home
Cornwall Air Ambulance’s Sing It Home album brings together over 100 local musicians to raise funds for a second rescue helicopter in 2025. With strong community support, the release topped the charts last year. When you buy or stream the album, you’re helping to keep Cornwall’s emergency services running at Christmas and throughout the year.

Isle of Man
Manx Santa Dash
Hundreds of runners in Santa suits take to the streets of Douglas each December for the annual Isle of Man Santa Dash. The one-mile fun run raises funds for local charities, including Isle Listen, the Foodbank, and Crossroads Care. Think of it as festive fitness for a good cause.

Bretagne
The Green Valley Brittany
This animal-rescue charity needs volunteers year-round to care for abandoned pets, help out at its Boutique Solidaire, or raise funds for rescued animals. Over the holidays, extra hands are needed for festive events. It’s a heart-warming way to help Brittany’s four-legged friends this Christmas.

Galicia
Fundación Érguete-Integración
In Vigo, Fundación Érguete-Integración hosts its Navidad Solidaria programme, serving Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve meals to people in need. Volunteers help prepare food, ole-out dinners, and organize activities. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to share community spirit in Galicia during the holiday season.

Nova Scotia – Halifax
Parker Street Food & Furniture Bank 
Participate in the “Christmas Hamper” program that provides decorated boxes filled with the ingredients for a turkey dinner, plus toys for children and families facing hardship. Volunteers help pack hampers, sort and pack donations, and deliver the boxes for Christmas.

If you don’t live in these areas, look for volunteer opportunities in your own community and stir up some true holiday spirit in this season of giving.