GREAT FALLS — Christmas Day has come and gone, but did you know the day after is a holiday, too? December 26 is Boxing Day — and it has nothing to do with the sport, or all the empty boxes left after opening gifts on Christmas morning. The holiday is meant to be a day dedicated to giving to the less fortunate.
It originated in the 1800s, when the rich upper class would give money and other gifts to those in need in small boxes. While people all over the world observe Boxing Day, it’s most commonly celebrated in Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Even some Cascade County residents participated in the holiday.
“My family’s been doing it since I was a kid, for every new piece of clothes we get, we take one old one from the closet and donate it here to Goodwill,” said Andrew Pagan of Great Falls.
With the Christmas spirit still in the air, local organizations like the Great Falls Rescue Mission are encouraging those that can to give this holiday season.
“Think about the Mission when you’re wanting to donate our stuff,” said Bryan Beagle, manager of the Great Falls Rescue Mission Thrift Store. “We’re here for our community and it goes back into our community. “
The Rescue Mission takes clean clothing, household furniture and other family essentials like dishes and toys. Learn more about how to donate here.
