Is gift giving your love language? You’re not alone. According to a national report conducted by the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA), over 85% of Australians enjoy giving gifts more than receiving them. In fact, the same report stated that Australians spend A$19.8 billion on gifts each year. That’s a massive amount of money!
If gift-giving sparks joy, we’re here to tell you that there are other ways of giving this Christmas without burning a hole in your pocket. Here are five easy and mindful ways to give gifts that keep on giving.
1. Shop Local
It’s time to show love for small businesses. They are the backbone of a thriving neighbourhood; providing local jobs, helping us reduce our environmental impact when we shop, and helping us build a sense of community. Products from your local are often made in small batches and are sometimes even personalised. These make for some of the most unique and special gifts.
2. Source Your Packaging From Op Shops
If you’re big on sustainability, you may have been planning to DIY your gifts in the form of scrumptious, home baked goodies. Why not go a step further and source your packaging in op shops? Score some nifty pre-loved casserole dishes, decorative baskets, and bottles that your loved ones can keep. They are often cheaper than getting them from department stores.
3. Join A Charity Stream
You might just discover your new favourite content creator who’s fundraising to give back to the community! Game On Cancer®, which is a Cure Cancer initiative that unites gaming and streaming communities to raise vital funds for cancer research, is running its Holiday Spectacular campaign this month. And if you’re a content creator yourself, you can still sign up and potentially win donations for your fundraiser from Tiltify with their annual Claus My Cause campaign.
4. Donate Your Spare Change
If you’re feeling a little guilty about holiday shopping, rounding up the spare change from your purchases can be one way of giving back. Apps like Change 4 Change makes it safe and easy to connect your account and accumulate your round ups and automatically transfer them to a charity of your choice. Bonus - all charities in this app are specifically aligned to a UN Sustainable Development goal and are tax deductible!
5. Host A Newcomers’ Party
Also known as an “Orphans Christmas”, this is all about opening your doors to new people and experiences. While Christmas is a time for family and friends, not all of us are fortunate to be celebrating with loved ones. You’ll be surprised at how many among us feel lonely and isolated particularly at this time of the year. Reach out to friends and acquaintances and get the word out that you’ll be hosting a party for those who don’t have families nearby to spend Christmas with. It can even be a casual get-together where everyone can just relax, bring a dish of their own, and make new friends. If you want to make it even more special, you can register it as a BarbeCURE® and give donations to vital cancer research!
