Pay it forward this Christmas and give a charity gift that will have a wide-reaching effect
Charity and Christmas often go hand in hand, with many people opting to give and give back. Your presents this year can be gifts for more than just a loved one, by supporting one of the many charities in Ireland. Some physical gifts will directly support local work, and gifting a donation in the name of someone else means you’re providing often vital funds. Whether you decide to make someone’s day or safeguard the planet for the future, both you and your giftee can rest safe in the knowledge you’ve spread the love this season.
Shuttle Knit
Shuttle Knit employs women from the Irish Traveller community, who craft stunning knitwear and accessories. You can have the luxury feel of high-quality knitwear at a fraction of the price, and know that you’re supporting a marginalised community in the process. These fingerless gloves are sure to keep you cosy in the bitter winter months.
UNICEF
Those of us in the EU have free and easy access to a variety of Covid vaccines, which has meant an increased amount of safety for our loved ones and community. The same can’t be said for all countries, and vaccine inequality means there are vast areas of the world without the same level of access. This Christmas, make a donation to UNICEF’s vaccine appeal in the name of a pal, with set prices available as well as individual donations.
Madra
Many of our pups have had a field day during the pandemic, with all of the family working or studying from home much more often. But the same can’t be said for all furry friends. You can sponsor a dog’s dinner through charity Madra, for as little as €5. It helps support the charity’s work at caring for the dogs that don’t see a lot of love. Gift it forward to a dog lover.
LauraLynn
LauraLynn Children’s Hospice provides services for sick children around the country. They offer a range of gift cards, from €10, which will help support the charity in making a child’s stay a happier and more comfortable one. By giving this gift, you could help provide children at LauraLynn with a session of play, a sensory experience or a chance to make music.
Climeworks
For the eco-conscious pal, give the gift of a greener planet. Climeworks work hard at removing carbon dioxide from the air forever. They’ll remove from the air approx a kg of carbon dioxide per euro donated. They offer a range of gift cards from €25, or you can choose to make an individual donation. The Climeworks air-captured carbon dioxide is stored safely and permanently away for millions of years.
Casey is a teddy bear dressed up in cosy pjs. The money is directly donated to the invaluable services and facilities of our local children’s hospital wards, CUH Children’s Services (Cork) and UHL Children’s Ark (Limerick). Spotted by Rocío Fernández.
