By Shamecca Brown-Granite State News Collaborative
When December arrives in New Hampshire, the air fills with the scent of pine, the twinkle of holiday lights and the hum of community spirit. But beyond the decorations and gifts, the holidays are about something deeper: kindness, connection and generosity.
I know this firsthand. There was a time when I was a single mom, doing everything I could to make ends meet. Back then, organizations like Friends of Forgotten Children, Catholic Charities and others were a lifeline. They didn’t just give me support, they gave me hope. I’ve never forgotten that. And I never will.
Years later, working at YWCA NH, I had the opportunity to give back in a small but meaningful way. I helped wrap gifts for children whose parents were struggling. I remember the faces, the stories and the gratitude in that room. I felt good – not because of what I was doing, but because I understood the families’ challenges. I had been there myself. That experience reminded me why giving matters and why kindness is the heartbeat of the holidays.
People often say that news is always bad – and yes, we can’t control everything happening in the world. But we can control how we show up for others. We can choose to uplift, to share joy and to make a difference in someone’s life. That’s why I want to highlight something different this December: kind news. Stories of generosity, hope and love happening right here in New Hampshire.
To celebrate this, I present the 12 Days of Kindness in the Granite State, a countdown of uplifting moments, organizations and everyday acts that remind us of the goodness in our communities.
Day 1 – Friends of Forgotten Children
Supporting families in Concord with food, clothing and gifts, this organization ensures no child feels forgotten during the holidays. Their work is quiet but powerful, giving hope and dignity to families navigating hardship.
Day 2 – Catholic Charities NH
From emergency assistance to food support, Catholic Charities lifts up families across the state. During December, their efforts help parents provide joy for their children, even in difficult times.
Day 3 – YWCA NH
Wrapping gifts for children at YWCA NH taught me that kindness comes full circle. I felt the impact of giving directly, seeing families’ gratitude first-hand and understanding how even small gestures can change a holiday.
Day 4 – A neighbor's helping hand
Acts of kindness happen everywhere. Someone shoveling a driveway for a neighbor before sunrise might not make the headlines, but it makes the community stronger.
Day 5 – Teachers giving beyond the classroom
Many educators quietly buy hats, gloves and supplies for children in need. Their generosity ensures every student feels cared for during the winter months.
Day 6 – Local businesses sharing joy
From free hot cocoa to holiday discounts for families in need, local businesses play a big role in making the season brighter for everyone.
Day 7 – Families supporting families
Some parents donate gently used coats, toys or books so other children can experience warmth and joy. Small contributions like this ripple through the community.
Day 8 – Teens volunteering
Young people give their time at shelters, food banks and toy drives, proving that compassion has no age limit and kindness is contagious.
Day 9 – Unexpected generosity
A grocery store cashier covering someone’s groceries when a card declines is a simple act that can restore hope and faith in humanity.
Day 10 – Safe spaces for all
Community centers opening their doors later than usual for those in need provide warmth, security and a place to feel supported, even on the coldest December nights.
Day 11 – Adopting holiday wishlists
Families and volunteers work together to make sure no child goes without a Christmas gift. Every gift represents care, love and attention to someone’s story.
Day 12 – Everyday Granite Staters
The most meaningful acts of kindness are done by ordinary people choosing to show up. From neighbors checking on each other to volunteers giving their time, New Hampshire proves that giving from the heart is what makes a community strong.
The world around us may feel heavy, and the news may often seem negative. But here in New Hampshire, kindness is happening every day. This holiday season, let’s focus on the good. Let’s celebrate the stories that inspire us, uplift others and remind us that our actions, big or small, make a difference. Because the real gift of Christmas isn’t found under a tree. It’s found in the hearts of those who give, those who care, and those who choose kindness when it matters most.
Shamecca Brown is a New Hampshire-based columnist who is family-oriented and passionate about serving underserved communities. These articles are being shared by partners in the Granite State News Collaborative. For more information, visit collaborativenh.org.