It’s “Giving Tuesday,” a day people are encouraged to give back, and this year, many local organizations are relying on virtual donations to help fund their missions.

The Regional Environmental Council works all year to make food available for people in the city. Their programs include educating youth on growing food and learning about food access. They run farmers markets in low income neighborhoods and maintain a community garden.

The nonprofit says the COVID-19 pandemic led to a rise in food insecurity, and they're working to make sure people have multiple options to find good food.

"That includes our farmers markets, which are typically outside or in spaces where you can socially distance and wear masks, and not only support the food access point, but also Central Mass. farmers that we provide them a way to get healthy food to our customers as well,” said REC Development Director Ajayi Harris.

Another nonprofit, the 365z Foundation, was forced to cancel its fundraiser for holiday meals and gifts. Instead, it’s doing a virtual 36-50 drive.

President Rosemary Ford says if someone donates $36.50, it will pay for a family’s holiday meal, including the turkey and all the fixings.

"We are aiming for 240 meals, and they will be distributed on December 19. We are also working with Planting the Seed. Planting the Seed has a toy drive, and we work together, and they provide the toys for our meals to go with them," says Ford.

Ford says donations given today will be matched in honor of Giving Tuesday.