5 More Gifts You’ll Love to Give

Holiday gifts that make a big difference

Last week, we shared five super gift ideas that will warm your heart without draining your pocketbook.  Even better, they are all eco-friendly!  In the spirit of the season (and for those of you are are down to the last 4 days before Christmas), let’s continue the list with 5 more gifts you’ll love to give!

The beauty of these holiday shopping ideas is that you don’t have to worry about wrapping, picking the wrong color or size, or getting something your recipient already has.  This is gift giving the ultra-easy, ultra-green style!

More importantly, these gifts can truly make a difference, if not help save a life.  This is what Christmas is all about, in my opinion….

1.  Socks for the homeless.  You may not appreciate getting new socks from Aunt Mae, but a homeless person would greatly appreciate the gift.  With a donation of only $5 to hannahssocks.org, a needy individual in Toledo or Cincinnati, Ohio will receive 7 pairs of warm woolly socks.  The non-profit organization was started from the caring concern of a 4-year old girl who noticed a sockless man while serving Thanksgiving Dinner at a mission one year.

Hannah’s Socks collects donated materials in the form of men’s, women’s and children’s socks and undergarments, then partners with local shelters for distribution to the homeless and to victims of domestic violence.

Involve your children in giving this season

2.  Feed Hungry Children in Poor Countries.  Got a buck?  You can provide a healthy breakfast for four children for the small donation.  When you visit www.gocampaign.org, you’ll see not only how you can help, but read the inspirational stories of American children helping their less fortunate counterparts across the globe.

3.  Lend a Helping Financial Hand.  The economic crisis has hit many people hard.  Add to that situation, the tragedy of domestic violence, illness or other hardships, and some families are literally struggling to keep the lights on at home.  You can make a difference!  At www.smallcanbebig.org, 100% of your donation will go directly to help a needy family address urgent financial needs.  Every little bit helps.  Donations of $5 or $10 can truly make a positive change.

4.  Feed Shelter Dogs.  It doesn’t get any easier than this…. simply entertain yourself next time you are surfing the Internet by playing Bow Wow Trivia at www.freekibble.com.  No matter your smarts, every answer – right or wrong – sends 10 pieces of dog food to an animal shelter in need.  You can even play on your iPhone (try this next time you are in a long holiday shopping line):

5.  Help Bring Vaccinations to Developing Countries.  If you are feeling more generous, why not donate $50 to Doctors Without Borders?  Your tax deductible gift will allow 50 people to receive much-needed vaccinations against life-threatening diseases including polio and meningitis.

Trust me, giving gifts like these will be as much of a present to yourself as to those that receive your generous donation!