As lights go up around town and people sit down to write their holiday cards this year, we are reminded of the things that haven’t changed: our many blessings, the simple joys in the changing of the season and the goodness of our fellow human beings. The reminders of how much we have to be grateful for this holiday season is all around us, and the season also presents countless opportunities to add to the greater good.

From checking on a neighbor that’s spending the holidays alone or donating to the Food Bank, there are little or big acts of kindness that can help brighten the holidays for someone else.

While you are out doing your holiday shopping, it is more important than ever before to choose local. Our local businesses need our help, and we need them too. Without local shops, services and restaurants, our communities are no longer communities. Shop our small businesses. Purchase gift certificates for your favorite restaurants that you can enjoy later. Give the gift of an annual membership to a historic site, museum or favorite community organization. Let’s support them now to keep our local economy alive for the future.

Another way you can help is by donating an unused warm winter clothing item, including hats, gloves, coats, scarfs and children’s winter boots to my annual Winter Clothing Drive. So many of you have donated in the past years and it truly makes a difference. All items stay in our community to help our neighbors in need, and this year. Because of the economic impact of the shutdown, there are many families in need of your help. We are collecting items until December 14 at my office (8180 Main Street in Clarence) and at the Lockport Town Hall (6560 Dysinger Road), or you can call my office to make other arrangements if needed.

I always would kindly ask that you consider donating blood, especially now as blood banks are at a critically low level. Each donation can help save up to three other people’s lives — so what better gift could you give this holiday season? As a regular donor myself, I can assure you that it is a safe and quick process.  You can easily make an appointment online with either Connect Life or the American Red Cross.

Also, please know I’m also still taking nominations for our Hometown Heroes project. This project will honor local residents who have contributed to the community during the pandemic. I’ve received some wonderful nominations already but there is still time to nominate someone you know who has gone above and beyond during these difficult times. Let’s make sure they are thanked and honored! You can download the nomination form at https://nyassembly.gov/mem/Michael-J-Norris/story/93472 or email my office at norrism@nyassembly.gov for more details.