With Christmas around the corner, some local charities say they're in good shape despite the shaky economy. Our Dayana Perez tells us why.

SCHENECTADY, N.Y.-- As the malls continue to be packed just days before Christmas, the same can be said for the Schenectady City Mission. But instead of buying gifts, these people are dropping them off. Executives there said they've seen a tremendous boost in donations.

"Particularly in things like, Christmas toys, winter coats, socks, and hats and boots, and it's been exciting to watch the community respond to the greater need," said Schenectady City Mission Executive Director Mike Saccocio.

Though local charities like the City Mission are experiencing an increase in demand for services, they also said compared to last year, people are giving almost twice as much -- and they credit that to the economy.

Saccocio said, "It's on everybody's radar. They are thinking about their neighbors. They may be thinking, you know, things aren't great for me, but imagine not having a home, imagine not having a winter coat, imagine not having a toy for Christmas, and they are caring about that."

Managers at the Regional Food Bank agree. They said though food donations have remained steady, folks are still tightening their belts in giving monetary donations.

"Our Holiday Hunger Appeal is doing OK, but we are definitely behind in our collections at the mall. We have a booth at Crossgates mall. It's behind a little bit from last year," said Regional Food Bank Executive Director Mark Quandt.

But charities are looking on the bright side saying at a time where the nation is trying to come out of a severe recession and many people have less to give, it appears some are still finding ways to keep on giving.