BUFFALO, N.Y. — Thanksgiving was a day to reflect on all we are thankful for and on Giving Tuesday, many Western New Yorkers have decided to pay it forward.    

Catholic Charities of Buffalo is doing that by helping hundreds of families over the holidays. The organization has several ways that people can help give back on Giving Tuesday and beyond. 

For the holiday season, its Christmas program helped more than 3,000 children last year and they're looking to help even more this year. Catholic Charities is asking for donations of unwrapped toys for both boys and girls from infants to teens that can help spread Christmas cheer.

The Holiday Bag for the Homebound program seeks items for seniors like cleaning supplies and hygiene items that volunteers will hand-deliver.

Organizers say remembering those in need is what the holiday season is all about.

"So many people in our agency are volunteers," said Julie Lulek, senior director of Catholic Charities. "Many that run these volunteer programs with Catholic Charities and Ladies of Charity are volunteers and they do it because they can or we can give back and it really is what we feel Christmas is all about, giving back."

For more information about Catholic Charities of Buffalo and how you can help, click here. You can drop off donations in Toys For Tots bins around the city or at Ladies of Charity at 1122 Broadway until December 22.