Christmas is a time for giving and not just to friends and families. Christmas is a time when the difference between affluent people and those less well off become apparent. I have read so many heartbreaking stories of children who dread going back to school after the summer holidays and the Christmas break as their holidays have been very different to many of their classmates. Although Denmark is a relatively affluent country in comparison to many others, there are still a huge number of people in economic need, whether they are homeless, single parents, elderly people or those new to Denmark, they are still here.I have heard the argument that many people who access gifts, support and services offered at Christmas are ‘on the take’. Yes of course there are a minority of people like this but I’d rather take the risk that a donation of a food item may go to one of these people than not give at all to the majority of genuine people.

The Danish People’s Church has produced a really handy web page outlining many of the main charities looking for charitable help over the Christmas period – this is the link.

You may also notice in shops and supermarket little slips of paper you can add to your shop that give support to some of the main charities offering Christmas assistance. I bought a 25dkk one in Netto to support one such charity.

If you are thinking of volunteering your time over Christmas, which is always needed, this website has information about opportunities for this.

I have merely scratched the surface of this but I hope it gives you an idea of how to help, if you wish to. Please do comment here or on my Facebook page if you have any other great suggestions and I will do my best to incorporate them here.

Finally for more of a lowdown on Christmas in Denmark don’t forget to sign up for my guide and also get a holiday and celebrations printable for 2018 featuring illustrations by Charlotte Rule.