One of the simplest and most effective ways to give during the holidays is to give directly to the people in your circle that you know are struggling financially. This doesn’t need to be uncomfortable or awkward. It can be done anonymously, and as simply as gift cards or cash in an envelope in a mailbox. I like giving in my community because 100% of the gift goes right into the hands of someone you know needs it. (And sometimes you get the joy of seeing their kids playing with their Christmas toys, or you get to share a meal with them, or cookies show up on your doorstep…)
Is there a family in your community or even in your immediate social circle who you know is struggling financially due to illness, unemployment or other circumstance? Your holiday giving doesn’t have to go in to the hands of a mega-corporation that strips half of it away for overhead and marketing, you can simply give your gift to a family in your neighborhood. Not sure who that might be? Ask your church pastor or your children’s teacher. Many people will see the things that you can’t.
On our fifth day of giving we gifted $500.00 to a family that we know, and we have known for years. As to not break their anonymity, we won’t share anything about them, but I encourage you to consider where your Christmas donations are going. How much good can you do in your own backyard?
In previous years we have sponsored anonymous families through different organized charities – and I still see huge value in this – but there’s something pretty delightful about sharing with people you already know and love. Maybe your gift pays their gas bill, or maybe it buys their children gifts, either way, I’m happy to give close to home and know that the people we care about are enjoying their Christmas without the stress that comes from extra debt or choosing between Christmas presents or bill payments. Choose one family,or spread the love around!