Cheaper Ways to Give this Holiday Season
Posted By :Lindsey Kupfer
Posted At : Monday, Nov 29, 2010
Christmas is a time for giving; at least it was until the economy plummeted. Over the last couple years fewer people have been inclined to donate money and toys to the less fortunate. Even though everyone is strapped for cash, it’s important to remember what the holiday is really about. Here are some tips on how to give and save this Christmas.
Donate Toys
Instead of going out and spending money, you can donate old toys that your kids haven’t touched in years. Have the whole family do an early spring cleaning and get rid of things that you don’t need anymore. Take all the old toys to a Toys for Tots drop-off center at any Toys “R” Us or Babies “R” Us nationwide. This idea not only saves you money, but you are also donating and cleaning out your house at the same time. Visit Toysfortots.org to get more information about the program.
Donate First
Before you start that long list of presents this year, donate first. If you wait until the last minute you are less likely to donate anything at all. No matter how much money you decide to donate, it’s better than nothing. After a long day at the crowded mall doing your Christmas shopping, the last thing you want to do is spend more money. People are always happy after they donate and it makes them feel good to help others. So, maybe that dreaded trip to the mall wouldn’t be so bad if you donate beforehand.
Donate Your Time
If you don’t have the money to spare this year, then donate your time. The Salvation Army is always looking for volunteers. Switch up your holiday traditions and help serve Christmas dinner to families that look to you for help. They also need volunteers to bring gifts to hospitals. The best part of volunteering is that you can pick which organization you want to help. Visit www.Phoenixvolunteers.org or www.Phoenixrescuemission.org to sign up today.
Donate Food
The easiest way to donate this Christmas is to give food. It’s cheaper than presents and more thoughtful than money. Canned food is so cheap that you can donate a ton of it for a great price. Food drives are everywhere during the holidays. Check www.Firstfoodbank.org to stay updated with food drives or even send a food box to a family in need.
Donate in a Friend’s Name
You kill two birds with one stone with this strategy. If you visit www.charitynavigator.org, you can find almost any charity you want and you can donate money in a friend’s name. It’s a great idea when giving gifts around the office.
No matter how much money you are looking to save this year, there are many ways to help out people in need.
