On the Fifth Day of Christmas: Be Charitable

Feeling guilty from polishing off yesterday's liquor basket already? There is no need to worry because today's gift idea might help out the neighbors you disturbed last night.

Today we suggest the gift that keeps on giving-- a donation in someone's name to a local charity. Do you have that one rare gem of a friend or relative who says they want nothing this year and actually means it? Here is something they will appreciate.

There are plenty of charities right here in Levittown that could use your help. Here are a few:

American Legion- Levittown Post 1711 and Island Trees Post 1877

Gift for:  The patriot

What they do: The Levittown and Island Trees Posts of the American Legion are part of the national veterans service organization devoted to advocating patriotism, mentoring youth programs in the community and of course honoring our veterans, who are a vital part of Levittown's identity.

Contact: Phone 516-731-9114, located at 3123 N. Jerusalem Road

Knights of Columbus- Levittown Holy Innocents Council #3581

Gift for: The religious

What they do: The Levittown council of the Catholic service organization holds true to the founding principles of charity, unity and fraternity. They are dedicated to providing financial aid to families in need and assisting the sick, disabled and needy through work in education, charity, social welfare, religion, public relief and war relief.

Contact: Phone: 516-731-9018; located at 3581 Jeffries Road.

Levittown Historical Society

Gift for: The history buff

What they do: This not-for-profit organization works to preserve the history of Levittown.  Its members collect and archive artifacts that tell the story of Levittown's past. They also run the Levittown Historical Museum, where they give tours and educate children and adults on America's first suburb's past and present.

Contact: President Polly Dwyer at pollydwyer@aol.com.

Levittown Kiwanis Club

Gift for: The one with the soft spot for kids

What they do: The Levittown branch of this service organization is dedicated to helping neighbors in need, especially children. They work with the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center at North Shore-LIJ Hospital, "adopt" children and their families during the holidays and provide them with gifts they couldn't buy themselves, and support many other causes locally and internationally.

Contact: President Ann Torcivia can be reached at friendstravel@optonline.net or 516-822-5966.

Check out other ways to help your community.