The holidays may come with a lot of feelings: joy, anxiety, sadness, anticipation, anger, and the list could go on. This time of the year holds a different space for everyone. The holidays also provide a time to reflect and connect. With kids being out of school for an extended period of time, the holidays provide a window of opportunity for connection.
Some ideas to connect with your child over the holidays may include:
talking about family traditions
asking how their day was (the high and the low)
sharing one thing you/your child is grateful for each day in December
make a bucket list of things to do over the school break
gathering for a shared meal
letting your child help make a meal, dessert, or snack
play a board game
watch a movie
read a book together
spending 20 minutes doing your child's preferred activity
call loved ones together
leave them a note that you are thinking of them
teach a new hobby
take a walk and get fresh air
ask what their top interest areas are
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FOOD & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
COLUMBUS EMERGENCY RELIEF
1853 10th Avenue (inside the Simon House)
402-564-4184
Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Mon. & Wednesday
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Friday
Services: Emergency help with utilities, housing & medical. Must live in Platte County, work in Columbus or be an employee of Cargill in Schuyler. Cannot assist with deposits.
1st UNITED METHODIST OUTREACH CENTER
3602 16th Street
Hours: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Thursdays or by appt.
Food pantry that can be accessed every two weeks (14 days). No ID required. They also have a food blessing box outside the building with items for 1-2 meals available.
FREE LITTLE FOOD PANTRY
Outside of the Columbus Area United Way office at 3214 25th Street in Columbus. Is available at any time to take what you need, when you need it. Can take several items for 1-2 meals.
PLATTE COUNTY FOOD PANTRY
3020 18th Street (northwest side of building)
402- 563-4544
Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Mon. / Wed. / Friday
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday
Services: Provide a two- week supply of food to local residents who are out of work or in temporary need.
PLATTE COUNTY GENERAL ASSISTANCE
2610 14th Street – Building North of the Courthouse
402-563-4915
Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Monday – Friday
Services: Emergency help with rent, utilities & medical issues. Must seek assistance from other agencies before services can be provided. No deposits paid.
SIMON HOUSE
1853 10th Avenue
402-564-8444
Office Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday
Services: Clothing, food & household goods for all ages for sale or voucher from church or local agency; can help with rent, utilities, medications, gasoline, groceries, etc. (limited funds). Cannot assist with deposits.
THE SALVATION ARMY
1711 23rd Street
402- 564-6919
Financial Assistance: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Tues. – Friday
Food Pantry: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Can be accessed monthly. (Prefer clients call for appointment)
Services: Used clothing / furniture / household goods & food pantry, emergency rent, utilities & medications.