The spirit of giving is always strong in Bedford County. If you are looking for ways to give back this holiday season, here are five ideas:

1. Toys for Kids Drive: Donate new, unwrapped toys to children in need. There are donation boxes available at the Bedford County Sheriff's Office (1345 Falling Creek Rd., Bedford) and the Bedford Wal-Mart. Monetary donations are also accepted. Make checks payable to BCSO Employee Fund.

2. Holiday Food Boxes: Bedford County Social Services operates a food pantry year-round and assembles holiday food boxes during the Christmas season. Drop off non-perishable donations to Social Services (119 East Main St., Bedford) Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donations of fruit, canned meats, soup, and high-protein canned good such as ravioli are needed.

3. Shop with a Cop: Bedford County Social Services and local law enforcement agencies work together to take local children on a shopping trip for clothes, personal hygiene items, and toys. To contribute, call Social Services at 540-586-7750 ext. 2266. You can mail donations to Bedford County Social Services Attn: Denise Kennedy - Shop with a Cop, P.O. Box 1187, Bedford, VA 24523.

4. Festival of Trees: This event at the Bedford Area Welcome Center runs through Jan. 4, 2026. Creative tree displays raise money for a variety of local charities and nonprofits. Vote for your favorite ($1/vote).

5. Bedford Community Christmas Station: Monetary donations for this local nonprofit are accepted year-round. Mail your donation to P.O. Box 1353, Bedford, VA 24523. Email info@bedfordchristmasstation.org for more information.