Here are five charity gift ideas to help you give back this festive season
While Christmas is of course a time to indulge in the finer things in life, it is also the perfect time to give back to those less fortunate than ourselves. There are plenty of amazing organisations in Ireland, with countless volunteers working tirelessly to improve the lives of others. Incorporating some charity work into your Christmas gifting this year can go a long way in helping to change another’s circumstances. Click here to see how you can support overwhelmed rescue centres across Ireland also.
ALONE Christmas cards
ALONE is a national organisation that aims to support older people so that they can age at home. This year, they have partnered with Kelly Cards to release a collection of Christmas cards. The classical cards feature images of Harry Clarke’s stained glass windows and winter scenes from Grafton Street in the 1960s. A pack of eight cards retails at €11, with 10% of each sale going directly to ALONE. Purchase on kellycardsireland.com.
UNICEF Three Wise Gifts
UNICEF Ireland provide humanitary aid to children across the world. This festive season, they have released their Three Wise Gift guide, compiling of three help packages for struggling children. Prices range from €30 to €90, meaning these packs suit a variety of budgets. The safety and warmth package for children caught in conflict (€90) comes with emergency food sachets, thermal blankets, rehydration salt and plenty more life-saving resources. To purchase, visit unicef.ie.
The Gavin Glynn Foundation partners with AVOCA
The Gavin Glynn Foundation helps families of children with cancer to travel overseas for treatment that is not available in Ireland. They have partnered with AVCOA to bring you a beautiful double-wick candle. The woody scent, Sandalwood is a symbol of balance and relaxation, adding to that peaceful ambience we aim to bring to our homes at this time of year. Retailing at €29.95, 100% of the proceeds go directly to The Gavin Glynn Foundation. Available to purchase in-store and online at avoca.ie.
Dublin Simon Community: The Busk
The Busk on Christmas Eve returns to Dublin after three years. Taking place on the streets of the city, this feel-good event can be enjoyed with pals or family. This event is one of many fundraisers that Dublin Simon community has organised to raise money for the many homeless in Ireland. Acts such as Wild Youth and the Lucan Gospel Choir will be amongst those performing. With over 6,000 people living on our streets, donations no matter how big or small are greatly appreciated. Tap donations will be accepted on the night or visit dubsimon.ie to give back online.
Jack and Jill
The Odlums Big Book of Baking is a hardback cookbook of over 100 Odlums recipes. With one to suit every occasion and easy to follow instructions, as well as all proceeds going straight to Jack and Jill, it is the perfect gift to give back. Retailing at €25, the book can be purchased in Dunnes Stores nationwide or on jackandjill.ie.