Christmas isn’t always a merry time for everyone, with money issues and stress causing grief and anxiety. There are ways to give back over the festive season, with various businesses and organisations offering gifts that benefit individuals, the community and the environment. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourites this Christmas.
Oxfam Unwrapped
Oxfam offers a unique way to give back with Oxfam Unwrapped, an initiative that raises funds through selling Christmas cards. When you buy an Unwrapped card, you are supporting Oxfam’s mission to remove the barriers that keep people trapped in poverty, driving sustainable, long-term change for communities. Each Oxfam Unwrapped charity gift card helps to provide food, clean water and other life-changing essentials to those in need.
Visit: oxfam.org.nz/unwrapped or unwrapped.oxfam.org.au
Make Give Live
This social enterprise unites knitters and crocheters to create hats, accessories and Christmas decor. When you purchase from Make Give Live, an item is donated to someone in need. Their hats and special Christmas items make for beautiful gifts with the added warmth of helping someone else stay warm too. Their Cocobear hat was made famous worldwide after Prince Harry’s son Archie was photographed wearing it.
Visit: makegivelive.com
The Salvation Army – Wishes
In Australia, The Salvation Army’s Wishes initiative offers a chance to make a real difference this holiday season. Instead of traditional gifts, you can contribute directly to provide essentials like food, shelter and support for families and individuals facing hardship. With options to fulfil wishes starting at just $5, this program allows you to give a meaningful gift that helps bring comfort and joy to those doing it tough during the festive season.
Visit: salvationarmy.org.au/wishes or salvationarmy.org.nz
Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal
In partnership with The Salvation Army, Kmart’s Wishing Tree Appeal is Australia and New Zealand’s largest and longest-running Christmas gift appeal. You can donate a gift or money in-store or online, and Kmart and The Salvation Army will turn these donations into gifts for children and families in need, ensuring everyone experiences the joy of Christmas.
Visit: kmart.com.au/kmartwishingtree or kmart.co.nz/kmartwishingtree
Thread Together
Thread Together partners with clothing brands to redistribute new clothing items to people in need, including those affected by natural disasters, homelessness and financial hardship. You can support this initiative by donating or gifting on behalf of someone to help provide clothing essentials to people facing difficult circumstances. This practical yet impactful gift empowers individuals with a fresh start and a sense of dignity through access to quality clothing.
Visit: threadtogether.org
