Running out ideas of what to get for mom, dad, sibling, significant other, best friend, or anyone who deserves an alternative gift during the high holidays? Check out these five charities that go beyond the glitz and glam of basic gifts. Make someone else’s holiday better across the world.
1. Know someone who wants to help others in third world countries and wants to make a difference in social, economic and environmental inequality? Heifer International is the charity for them! Make a donation in their name to provide a hungry family with an animal, to let a little girl be sent to school, or to encourage a women to fulfill her goals in a community that can’t provide the necessities.
2. Little kids around the world need protection with medication and food to live a healthy life. Whether it’s buying a mosquito blanket to prevent malaria, blanket for a cold night, or a vaccine to ensure safety against polio, UNICEF Inspired Gifts is the way to go. This website also supports refugees and looks to give them as much help as possible! Help make a child’s life easier by a simple donation in that special someone’s name
3. For the ones you know who are teachers, or aspiring to be one, Donors Choose focuses on teachers in low-income public schools. Donations can be made based on location and interest. The website lets you browse through school projects and needs that need to be funded. If $50 or more is given to a single project, actual thank you notes from the kids are sent back to you!
4. A great environmental and Hanukkah gift can be given through the Jewish National Fund. Through a wide selection of trees, as many as you would like can be purchased to be planted in dry and deserted areas in Israel. Help replenish the land of Israel while showing someone that you care for them!
5. What’s pink and has a whole month dedicated to it? Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Although the month has passed, making a donation to find a cure to end breast cancer is meaningful too. Especially for those who have been effected by breast cancer. Susan G. Komen is one of the largest breast cancer charities and is waiting for your gift giving this holiday! Merchandise is also a plus for those who like a material gift with a bigger meaning.