Where Are You Donating in Berkeley?

Winter can be rough for Berkeley's homeless and hungry. As such, the holidays are traditionally a time when local charities and non-profit organizations up their efforts to bring in donations — whether it's food, toys, cash or volunteer time.

And there are plenty of ways to get giving in Berkeley.

For example, the Alameda County Community Food Bank has canisters set up for grocery donations around Berkeley, and is seeking cash contributions online. "We’re hearing from our agencies in Berkeley that demand is increasing," said Communications Coordinator Miranda Everitt. "We’re sending more food to meet the need."

From July to November 2011, around 16 percent of calls to the Alameda County Community Food Bank's Emergency Food Helpline came from Berkeley, according to Everitt. 

Which charities are you donating to this season and why? Let us know in the comments.