All Christmas Blog Posts
35 Unique Christmas Gift Ideas in 2025
Even though we try really hard, sometimes, Christmas gifting can drift into dust-collecting territory. But it doesn’t have to. No matter who you’re shopping for, here’s something better: meaningful, ethical, feel-good Christmas gift ideas that won’t end up at the back of the cupboard. And before we get into the list… Meet Oxfam Unwrapped, the punniest charity gift cards on the planet — and the easiest way to give something real. Each card supports Oxfam’s work tackling the inequality that fuels poverty and helps communities build stronger futures. Clean water, climate action, women’s leadership. And yes, even a goat. Ready to find something thoughtful, practical and a little unexpected? Let’s unwrap some ideas. Experience gifts (for the “I don’t need anything” people) Unique Christmas gifts for adults don’t need to be things. Experiences are special and they fit pretty much everyone (even your minimalist cousin). 1. A cooking class with local produce A hands-on cooking workshop that uses local, seasonal ingredients. Let them make new recipes instead of space on the shelf. Even better if you get to taste test. 2. A pottery, painting or craft workshop Creative experiences are trending, and for good reason: adults rarely get structured time to play. Choose a local maker or a small studio that runs online classes. 3. A guided hike or outdoor micro-adventure Gift a voucher for a local nature experience (think: bushwalking tour, birdwatching, astronomy). Climate-kind, grounding, and screen-free: tick. 4. A massage or wellness treatment Find local practitioners, ethically run clinics, or at-home vouchers. Now that we’re all grown-ups, a quiet hour can be the greatest luxury. 5. A tickets-to-anything moment Comedy, theatre, a gallery opening, a gig, or a local festival. Experiences support local creatives and take up no cupboard space. Ethical and meaningful gifts (high-impact + low clutter) These Christmas gift ideas are for the socially conscious in your circle, or just the person who doesn’t want another multi-tool (they're probably still figuring out the last one). 6. An Oxfam Unwrapped card A punny, purpose-packed gift that funds long-term community-led work. Choose from clean water, climate action, food security, women’s leadership and more — all wrapped in a brilliantly cheeky card. A guaranteed quack up. Image suggestion: Christmas duck Buy a duck 7. A climate-conscious donation in their name Pick an organisation you know they care about and donate on their behalf. Pair it with a small handmade card so there’s something to open (if you have kids, this is a rare moment where you can ethically put them to work). 8. A “giving table” moment Set up a simple table at your family Christmas lunch with different donation cards or envelopes. Each person chooses the cause they’d like their gift to support. Keep it light, meaningful — and remarkably tidy. 9. A trio of charity chickens (yes, really) The Christmas Chickens card from Oxfam Unwrapped is a crowd favourite. It’s funny, useful and supports people to lift themselves out of poverty. 10. A community-supported agriculture subscription Gift a weekly or fortnightly box from a local regenerative farm. Fresh, seasonal, delicious and (best of all) it contributes to food security in your very own backyard. Personalised (and truly thoughtful) gifts These next five Christmas present ideas punch above their weight — low cost, low waste, but the warm and fuzzies run deep. 11. A handwritten recipe book from friends or family Collect favourite recipes from people your giftee loves and bind them simply. It’s meaningful and guaranteed to be enjoyed. Bonus points if you can share some of the eating all together. 12. A framed print of a place they care about Think: local artist, recycled timber frame, minimal materials. Can you add a note about a shared memory of the place? Art meets heart. 13. A personalised playlist Curate a playlist for a memory — a trip, a year, a relationship, a theme. Simple, nostalgic and absolutely free. 14. A custom video message from family or friends Gather a few people and film short “here’s what we love about you” clips. Zero waste, maximum delight. This one is guaranteed to bring the feels. 15. A DIY voucher for help with something real Dog-sitting, plant-watering, childcare, tech help, baking lessons, garden weeding. Adults love practical generosity. Interest-based (and ethical) gifts Here are some unique Christmas gift ideas based on things they love to do. Mass-produced gear is easy to get, but try to go for items that support learning, creativity or local makers. 16. A guided Aboriginal Cultural Walking Tour For your nature-obsessed friend. Support local guides and learn about the world's oldest living culture — their history, traditions and lifestyle. and deepen connection to Country. 17. A puzzle or board game from a local creator Avoid big-box brands and support small designers making clever, low-waste games. 18. Art supplies from ethical brands Think watercolours, recycled sketchbooks, natural inks. Perfect for the quietly-creative grown-up. 19. A herb-growing kit (low waste only) Choose one with compostable pots, local seeds, and no plastic extras. Nothing gimmicky — just real herbs. You could pair this one with the handmade recipe collection or the local agriculture subscription for a larger Christmas gift. 20. A local workshop: fermentation, woodworking, weaving Do your friends or family love learning something new? Skill-based gifts are lots of fun. And they support local craftspeople. Pampering & lifestyle gifts (cosy, thoughtful, not mass-produced) Some of the best Christmas gift ideas simply encourage someone to slow down. But cosy doesn’t have to mean plastic-wrapped. 21. A handmade blanket or quilt Support a local maker or choose second-hand. Warm, personal and designed to last. 22. A fairtrade hot chocolate set or coffee bundle with mug Pair fairtrade hot choccie or coffee beans with a handmade mug and a copy of one of your favourite books (if you think they’ll enjoy it too). Ethical and delicious. 23. A natural spa-at-home kit Think reusable jars, simple ingredients, local makers. Avoid animal-tested or over-packaged sets. You could even have a go at making your own coffee scrub. 24. A sustainable weekender bag Choose recycled materials or ethically made options. Great for travellers, campers and spontaneous road-trippers. 25. A gourmet hamper (ethical edition) Curate a box with things like local honey, fairtrade chocolate, and small-batch jams or chutneys. All of the foodie delights and none of the single-use plastics. Practical Christmas gift ideas (the useful kind) These next ideas are adulting-friendly and genuinely helpful. 26. A stylish, long-lasting laptop sleeve Choose recycled felt, upcycled leather, or a small ethical maker. 27. A repair kit (bike, clothing, or tech) For the fixer in your life. Keep items in use longer — it's planet-friendly and satisfying. 28. Reusable everything kit A curated bundle of items they’ll use all year: produce bags, a thermos, beeswax wraps, all wrapped up in a sturdy tote. 29. A home energy audit voucher A practical, climate-positive gift for people wanting to save power. Many councils and energy companies offer home energy assessments. If you can find out who their energy retailer is, see if it's something you can purchase and gift like a voucher. Check their local council page, too. If that's a bit tricky to book and pay for without them, try printing out the service offering and creating your own voucher (kids are great helpers here). 30. A local gym or yoga class pass Healthier than a novelty jogger’s gadget and supports local fitness instructors. Stocking stuffers (small, fun, ethical) Tiny gifts that don’t become tomorrow’s clutter. 31. Fair-trade chocolate or coffee Slip them a bag of fairtrade beans direct from ethical producers. Always appreciated. Always consumed. 32. A pocket-sized puzzle or mini game Support small designers or choose second-hand. 33. A handmade ornament (recycled materials only) Think fabric scraps, wood offcuts, or pressed flowers. If you can tie your choice of materials into a shared memory, it definitely brings the “Aw” factor. 34. A tiny plant Local nursery. Easy to care for. Brings joy long after Christmas is over. Even better if you can pot up a cutting from your own garden. 35. An Oxfam Unwrapped card A classic. Light-hearted, pun-filled and more interesting than novelty socks. What’s not to love about a Christmas goat? Ready to wrap things up? If you’re hoping to make Christmas feel a little lighter and a lot more meaningful, Oxfam Unwrapped is an easy place to start. Each card supports Oxfam’s work fighting inequality, responding to humanitarian crises and helping communities build strong, lasting futures. Clean water, climate action, food security, women’s leadership. It’s all part of the work your gift supports. Explore the full Christmas collection, read about how to ask for donations as Christmas gifts this year, or dive into our gift guide for someone who has everything or 7 fun and charitable gifts for even more gift inspiration. Give what matters. Skip what doesn’t. And enjoy a reel-y punny Christmas that does a little more good. SHOP NOW And one last thing — once you’ve got your gifting sorted out, maybe you could try one of these Christmas gift exchange games.
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13 Best Christmas Gift Exchange Games for the Office
Brace yourself. The silly season is here. And so are the Christmas gift games that turn even your quietest colleagues into fierce and festive competitors. Whether your workplace loves gentle fun or full-blown holiday chaos, the right game can turn a simple gift swap into the much-loved highlight of the office calendar. We’ve rounded up a fresh mix of Christmas giving games — from quick and quirky to clever team-building. Help your office celebrate in style (and maybe discover who’s been practising their rock-paper-scissors strategy all year). No matter the size of your team or the vibe at your end-of-year party, these games for gifts at Christmas are guaranteed to bring it: laughter, connection and a little (friendly) competition. Ready to play? Let’s unwrap some ideas. What is Oxfam Unwrapped? Before we dive into the gifting games, meet the charity cards that make Christmas feel twice as good. SHOP NOW Oxfam Unwrapped is a punny collection of charity gifts guaranteed to quack you up. Even better, they help fund Oxfam’s work tackling the root causes of poverty. Each card represents something meaningful like clean water, food security, women’s leadership or climate action, and supports projects that help communities build strong, lasting futures. You can personalise your cards with your company logo or message, send them as e-cards or printed cards, and yes, they’re tax-deductible. It’s festive giving with impact baked in. Like a Christmas pudding, but with fewer currants. Ready to mix purpose with play? Let the games begin. Fun Gift Exchange Games for the Office 1. White Elephant White Elephant is a classic Christmas gift game where players unwrap presents, “steal” their favourites, and compete for the most sought-after surprise. It’s fast, funny, and delivers just the right amount of festive mischief. Perfect if you enjoy a bit of strategy with your shortbread. How to play Everyone brings a wrapped gift and places it in a central pile. Players draw numbers to determine the order of play. Player 1 picks and unwraps a gift. Each following player can either unwrap a new gift or “steal” an opened one. If your gift gets stolen, you choose a new wrapped one (or steal from someone else, if allowed). Continue until every participant is holding a gift. Tips for success Set a clear budget so no one accidentally becomes the office philanthropist. Limit how many times a gift can be stolen to keep things moving. Encourage fun, quirky gifts — every good White Elephant game needs at least one mysteriously rattly present. Optional idea If you want to sneak in a meaningful twist, slip in an Oxfam Unwrapped card as one of the wrapped gifts. It’s the only “steal” that makes everyone feel like they’ve won. SHOP NOW 2. Rock Paper Scissors Switch Secret Santa is a Christmas gift game where each person anonymously buys a present for one colleague, then reveals (or keeps secret) who gifted what. It’s as simple as they come. Christmas gifting, but with plot twists. How to play A few weeks before the party, everyone writes their name on a slip of paper. Participants draw a name at random — that’s who they’ll buy a gift for. If someone draws their own name, they redraw. On the day: gifts are exchanged anonymously, revealed in a group, or delivered stealthily to desks — whatever suits your team’s vibe. You can decide whether Secret Santas reveal themselves or remain forever mysterious. Tips for success Give people plenty of notice so no one panic-buys from the servo on the way in. Use an online name-drawing tool if your team is remote or hybrid. Make participation optional — gifting should feel fun, never pressured. Share a budget so everyone’s on equal footing. Read our guide to Secret Santa gift ideas for our thoughts on how to make the game unforgettable. 4. Dice Exchange Dice Exchange is a Christmas gift game powered entirely by the roll of the dice. Every turn decides whether you unwrap, swap, or suddenly find yourself holding the gift everyone’s been eyeing off. It’s simple and silly. And it delivers festive fun with a bit of suspense. How to play Everyone brings a wrapped gift and receives one at random. Players take turns rolling one or two dice (depending on how chaotic you want it). Each number corresponds to an action — for example: 1: Switch gifts with the person on your right 2: Switch gifts with the person on your left 3 or 4: Swap with anyone in the circle (and unwrap if it’s still wrapped) 5 or 6: Unwrap your gift The game ends once all gifts are unwrapped and everyone is holding one. Tips for success Print a simple action sheet so people can follow along. Use oversized dice for extra novelty. For big groups, have two dice rolling at once to keep the pace up. 5. Musical Gifts Musical Gifts works like a festive mash-up of hot potato and musical chairs. Gifts get passed around the circle while the music plays — when it stops, whoever’s holding the present opens it. Don’t underestimate this one. Your choice of music can make it a surefire hit. 90s mash-up, anyone? How to play Everyone brings a small, wrapped gift and places it in a central pile. Choose a DJ (ideally someone with decent taste or at least good comedic timing). The DJ hands a wrapped gift to the first player. When the music starts, players pass the gift around the circle. When the music stops, the person holding the gift opens it and steps out of the circle. Continue until every player has opened a gift. Tips for success Encourage your DJ to add surprise pauses. It keeps everyone on their toes. Use upbeat songs that suit your workplace vibe: festive hits, 90s throwbacks or whatever gets people smiling. Avoid breakable gifts (unless your insurance policy is better than most). For bigger teams, pass multiple gifts at once to keep things moving. 3. Secret Santa Secret Santa is a Christmas gift game where each person anonymously buys a present for one colleague, then reveals (or keeps secret) who gifted what. It’s as simple as they come. Christmas gifting, but with plot twists. How to play A few weeks before the party, everyone writes their name on a slip of paper. Participants draw a name at random — that’s who they’ll buy a gift for. If someone draws their own name, they redraw. On the day: gifts are exchanged anonymously, revealed in a group, or delivered stealthily to desks — whatever suits your team’s vibe. You can decide whether Secret Santas reveal themselves or remain forever mysterious. Tips for success Give people plenty of notice so no one panic-buys from the servo on the way in. Use an online name-drawing tool if your team is remote or hybrid. Make participation optional — gifting should feel fun, never pressured. Share a budget so everyone’s on equal footing. Read our guide to Secret Santa gift ideas for our thoughts on how to make the game unforgettable. SHOP NOW 4. Dice Exchange Dice exchange is another fun twist on office gift-giving games. Will you swap gifts with someone or unwrap a new surprise? It all depends on your luck when you roll the dice. Rules: For the dice exchange gift game, the choices about what happens to your gift are determined by a roll of one or two dice, depending on how complex you want to make the game. Everyone brings a wrapped gift, and they are distributed to all players at random. Players roll dice to determine what happens to the gift they’re holding. It’s a good idea to print instruction sheets so everyone can easily track what will happen next. There are lots of possibilities, but here’s a simple version of the game: 1 – Switch gifts with the person on your right 2 – Switch gifts with the person on your left 3 or 4 – Switch gifts with anyone in the circle AND unwrap the gift if it’s not already unwrapped 5 or 6 – Unwrap your gift The game ends when everyone is holding an unwrapped gift. Tips for a successful game: If you play with a larger group, you can speed up the game by having people unwrap the gifts that get passed to them. With smaller groups, you could start with 2-3 small gifts per person. Then, people can choose which ones they pass and open. Consider using an oversized pair of dice to make the rolling more dramatic and fun. 5. Musical Gifts Musical Gifts is a Christmas exchange gift game that is a mashup of music chairs and hot potato where players will pass gifts around the room until the music stops. But, don’t underestimate this one. With the right soundtrack, the music itself can become the most memorable player in this game. Rules: Everyone brings a small, wrapped gift and sets it in a pile by the DJ. Arrange everyone in a circle, either sitting or standing, and the DJ hands someone a gift. When the DJ starts the music, players pass the gift. Whoever is holding the gift when the music stops gets to open it. When you’ve won a gift, it’s time to step out of the circle to watch and dance along. Repeat until everyone has received a gift. Tips for a successful game: Encourage the designated DJ to add unexpected pauses for more fun. Choose music to match the mood of the office and aim for songs that people already know. Christmas music might be perfect for some groups, but don’t be afraid to go with 90’s dance favourites or anything that will keep people on the dance floor. Encourage non-breakable gifts, in case anyone misses a gift when someone passes it to them. For larger groups, pass around more than one gift at a time to speed up the game. SHOP NOW 6. Christmas Chaos Christmas Chaos is an unpredictable and spontaneous Christmas gift game (in the best possible way). Every player draws instruction cards that tell them who to swap gifts with — using fun prompts like “trade with someone wearing red” or “swap with the person who loves spreadsheets.” How to play Print a stack of instruction cards (or, even better, write your own tailored to the office). Place all wrapped gifts in a central pile and distribute one to each person. Players take turns drawing a card and following its instructions — swap left, swap right, trade with a colleague who matches a prompt, etc. Continue until all cards are drawn. Once the final action is complete, everyone unwraps the gift they’re holding. Tips for success Personalise the prompts with office in-jokes (“swap with someone who always remembers the Wi-Fi password”) or prompts that celebrate people (“trade with someone who helped you this year”). Keep the pace brisk so the energy stays high. For hybrid teams, prompts like “swap with someone on the next screen over” also work. 7. Gift Scavenger Hunt You guessed it — Gift Scavenger Hunt turns your office (or party venue) into a festive treasure map. Your team will follow clues, solve riddles and race to discover where their gift is hidden. It’s playful problem solving, one office in-joke at a time. How to play Collect all wrapped gifts ahead of time and give them to the organiser. The organiser hides the gifts around the office or venue. Prepare clues or riddles — each one leading players to their gift’s location. Hand out the first clue and let players (or pairs/teams) begin the hunt. The game finishes when every gift has been found. Tips for success Tailor clues to your workplace: the meeting room where everyone forgets their mugs, the printer no one admits to jamming, the “too cold” side of the office. Pair people up to make it more social — and to avoid anyone accidentally disappearing behind a filing cabinet. Include a mix of clue styles: riddles, photos, word puzzles, map fragments. Make sure all hiding spots are safe and accessible. Optional idea Hide an Oxfam Unwrapped card as a bonus “golden gift” at the end. What says holiday spirit more than a team trio of chickens? SHOP NOW 8. Gifts by Number Gifts by Number is just about the most simple Christmas gift game you can imagine. Everyone brings a wrapped gift that gets assigned a number, then players draw numbers to discover which one they’ll unwrap. It’s orderly. And now we’re all grown-ups, that’s pretty satisfying, right? How to play Assign each wrapped gift a unique number. Place all the numbers in a bowl or hat. Team members draw a number at random. Everyone retrieves the gift matching their number. Tips for success Unwrap the gifts in numerical order to add a bit of suspense. Track who brought which number to avoid accidentally giving yourself a reel-y punny Christmas fish. For extra fun, wrap tiny gifts in giant boxes (the ultimate office plot twist). 9. Holiday Trivia Gift Exchange Holiday Trivia Gift Exchange makes your team earn their pick from the gift pile with their trivia smarts. You might be surprised by the colleagues who’ve been quietly storing Christmas movie facts all year. How to play Prepare a list of holiday-themed trivia questions (movies, music, history, pop culture). Set up the wrapped gifts in a central pile. Participants take turns answering trivia questions. A correct answer lets them choose and unwrap any gift. Continue until all gifts have been selected and opened. Tips for success Mix easy and tricky questions so everyone has a chance to shine. Try team-based trivia if your office loves collaboration. Add a lightning round — song clip, then guess the next line — bonus points for singing it. Use visual questions too (identify the Christmas movie by a cropped screenshot, etc.). SHOP NOW 10. Left-Right Christmas Story Left-Right Christmas Story is a Christmas gift game that follows a story. Everyone passes their wrapped present left or right every time those words (left and right) appear in a story read aloud. It brings a playful dash of chaos to the day. The key is to tell a memorable story. How to play Each person starts with a wrapped gift on their lap. The organiser reads a short Christmas-themed story filled with the words “left” and “right.” Every time “left” is read, everyone passes their gift to the left. Every time “right” is read, everyone passes their gift to the right. When the story ends, participants unwrap whichever gift they’re holding. Tips for success Write a personalised story with office in-jokes (“right when the printer jammed…”). Keep the pace steady — fast enough for fun, slow enough that gifts don’t fly. Choose a story with a good mix of lefts and rights to keep everyone on their toes. They’re ten of our favourites. But in case nothing feels quite like your team yet, here are some more quick ideas. 11. Speed Swap A rapid-fire gift shuffle that quickly turns into chaos. Play some music (try to choose a song you’d love to sing to in the shower), and have someone ready to hit pause. Every time it stops, everyone swaps their wrapped gift with someone nearby. Keep the timing unpredictable and stop the game when the chaos turns into giggles. Unwrap whatever lands in your hands at the end. Bonus points if you can stop the music just as everyone’s belting out “You’re the voice, try and understand it — WOO-OO-OO-AAH” 12. Sneaky Santa This one’s a fun twist on Secret Santa. Everyone still buys a gift for the person they draw, but instead of tagging it, they add one short clue about themselves. Think “Has a desk plant that’s somehow still alive” or “Always freezing under the office air-con.” Gifts go into a pile, clues are read aloud, and the group guesses which colleague matches each hint. 13. Pass the Parcel: Team building edition A nostalgic classic with a workplace twist. We all know how Pass the Parcel goes: wrap one gift in several layers. While music plays, your team passes the parcel to the person on their left, and when the music stops, whoever is holding the parcel opens that layer. Now, here’s the team-building twist. Instead of wrapping little gifts in every layer, add a note with instructions to give the parcel to another person. Things like “Pass the parcel to someone who has gone from strength to strength this year”, or “pass this on to someone whose work you admire”. You could add some fun ones, too: “Give this to the one who cracks the best dad jokes” or “Pass the parcel to the one who distracts you when they shouldn’t”. And the gift in the middle? Choose an Oxfam gift card that suits your crew. Your team = closer. Your contribution to people experiencing poverty = awesome. Ready to wrap things up? If you’re planning Christmas gift games this year, why not pair the fun with something that actually does good? Oxfam Unwrapped cards can be personalised with your company logo, sent as e-cards or print, and don’t forget — they’re tax deductible. Explore the full Christmas range, pick something that fits your team’s spirit, and give a gift that keeps the goodwill going long after the last game ends. Looking for more ideas? Try our guides on corporate Christmas gifts or Christmas present ideas.
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28 Ideas for Donating to Charity This Christmas
Christmas has a habit of sneaking up with a lot of… well, stuff. We all love to be thought of, but there are ways to give that lift people up (instead of filling up landfill). We’ve got a fresh list of Christmas charity donation ideas that you can start organising today. But first, let us introduce ours-elves — we have just the thing. What’s Oxfam Unwrapped? Before we dive into the Christmas donation ideas, meet the charity cards that make Christmas feel twice as good. Oxfam Unwrapped is a punny collection of christmas gifts guaranteed to quack you up. Even better, they help fund Oxfam’s work tackling the root causes of poverty. Each card represents something meaningful like clean water, food security, women’s leadership or climate action, and supports projects that help communities build strong, lasting futures. You can personalise your cards with your logo or message, send them as e-cards or printed cards, and yes, they’re tax-deductible. It’s festive giving with impact baked in. Like a Christmas pudding, but with fewer currants. Okay, ready to make Christmas more meaningful and less clutter-full? Us, too. Christmas charity donation ideas Direct and in-kind giving Let’s start with the easy wins — quick, meaningful gifts to make Christmas lighter on stuff and bigger on impact. 1. Christmas giving tree A giving tree lets people pick a tag and donate to a cause instead of buying a gift. It’s simple, inclusive and looks great in any foyer or office corner. Keep things low-waste and put purpose front and centre. Optional: Swap paper tags for Oxfam Unwrapped cards and you’ll have a tree that comes with puns that’d make dad proud. 2. Matched giving (workplace or family) Matched giving doubles every donation — one gift becomes two. It’s quick and tidy. A brilliant way to make a bigger impact without any event planning. Does your team love efficiency almost as much as generosity? 3. Reverse advent calendar Instead of opening chocolates, you add something each day. Maybe a small donation, a pantry item, or the cost of a treat you skipped. It’s a low-pressure way to build generosity into December without overthinking it. 4. Donate in someone’s name Skip the “I hope they like it” guessing game and donate on behalf of someone who prefers purpose over presents. Thoughtful, tidy and always well received. You could pair it with a printed Unwrapped card so there’s still something fun to open. 5. Small-swap donation moment Pick one tiny December treat and donate the cost instead. Think: a takeaway coffee, or a new decoration. It’s quick, flexible and lets people join in without committing to a full event. 6. Give an ethical charity gift through Oxfam Unwrapped An Oxfam Unwrapped card is Christmas giving without the guesswork or the landfill guilt. You choose a card with a (hilariously punny) message, make a donation, and help fund projects that support clean water, food security, women’s leadership and climate action. All the impact, none of the re-gifting risk. You can also choose an ecard and make it an instant, zero-waste gift — like Santa, but digital. Fundraising events Ready to gather your people for some festive fun? These ideas bring connection and just the right dash of Christmas chaos — without buying anything that sheds glitter for the next six months. 7. Festive fun run or walk A Christmas fun run is an easy way to raise Christmas charity donations. People contribute an entry fee, walk or jog a short route, and enjoy a bit of end-of-year sunshine together. No need for novelty costumes or store-bought props. Keep it climate-kind: think hats you already own, sunscreen, and a donation bucket at the finish line. 8. Ethical Christmas market Host a small market with handmade, home-baked or upcycled goods. Visitors make a donation to enter or contribute through stall purchases. It supports creativity, minimises waste and keeps the focus on community over consumerism. 9. Fair-trade hot chocolate or coffee stall Set up a cosy drinks station using fair-trade cocoa or coffee and ask for a gold-coin donation per cup. It’s low-effort and a great conversation starter about ethical sourcing. 10. Carol concert or community singalong Invite neighbours, classmates or colleagues to a simple outdoor carol night and ask for a small donation at the gate. No big AV setup needed — just voices, candles-in-jars, and a few brave altos. 11. Christmas trivia or quiz night Run a quick evening of festive trivia with donated prizes (or bragging rights). Charge a small fee to enter. It’s fun, light-hearted and works beautifully for schools, workplaces or neighbourhood groups. 12. Outdoor Christmas movie night Project a film on a wall or bedsheet, ask for a donation per family, and encourage everyone to bring their own snacks and blankets. It’s one of the easiest ways to create a gentle, low-cost community moment. 13. Fair-trade or zero-waste bake sale Sell homemade slices, cakes, biscuits or hot drinks — all made with local or fair-trade ingredients. It raises money, sparks conversation and avoids the packaging-heavy pitfalls of traditional stalls. 14. Sustainable craft workshop Host a simple craft session using recycled paper, fabric scraps or natural materials to make decorations or cards. Ask for a donation to join and keep the atmosphere relaxed and creative. Donation drives Here are five ideas for Christmas charity donation drives — thoughtful, dignity-first drives that keep things respectful, useful and planet-friendly. 15. Second-hand book, toy or gift drive A second-hand drive collects quality pre-loved items for organisations supporting families experiencing hardship. You can keep good things in circulation and avoid the waste of buying new. Always focus on choice and dignity. Only clean, excellent-condition items belong in the pile. 16. Nutritious Christmas food drive Invite people to donate pantry staples, long-life items or culturally relevant foods that support households under pressure during the holidays. Think nutrition-focused, shelf-stable, and respectful of different tastes and traditions. 17. Period product or dignity drive A dignity drive collects pads, tampons and other essential items so people can access what they need over the festive season. It’s simple to organise and goes a long way toward supporting health, confidence and participation. 18. Sustainable hamper drive Instead of traditional hampers full of plastic-wrapped treats, people can contribute a few thoughtful, practical items (like fairtrade coffee, natural soap bars or beeswax wraps). It’s low-waste, useful and easy to tailor to the organisations you’re supporting. 19. Christmas pantry restock Invite your community to help restock a local service’s pantry with staple items that families rely on year-round. Set up a small drop-off point and share a list of what’s most helpful. That way, there’s no guesswork, just practical care. Workplace Christmas gift donation ideas Finish the year with some purpose-led office fun. These ideas bring teams together, spark good conversations and avoid relegating another novelty mug to someone’s bottom drawer. 20. Donation-for-dress-up day Swap office wear for something festive (or just comfy) and make a gold-coin donation to join in. No need for new costumes — just what people already own. It’s easy and cheerful. Add an Oxfam Unwrapped e-card as a prize for “best outfit recycled from the back of the cupboard.” Who wouldn’t love a goat for their efforts? 21. Charity luncheon instead of Secret Santa Skip the panic buying and pool your Secret Santa budget for a team lunch where everyone donates instead. It keeps things social and meaningful (no novelty tie required). 22. Skill-share raffle Everyone offers a skill (baking, bike fixing, plant watering, spreadsheet magic) and colleagues buy tickets to win each one. It’s surprisingly fun and personal. You never know who’s been keeping their inner Nigella on the downlow. 23. December payroll giving This one’s an effective way to raise Christmas charity donations quickly. Encourage your team to donate a small amount directly from their December pay, on the proviso that your workplace will match contributions. It’s simple, but it makes a powerful impact. 24. Volunteering roster Instead of a traditional party, some workplaces set up a December volunteering roster so staff can support local organisations together. It builds connection, morale and a sense of purpose to wrap up the year. Family and community ideas A handful of cheerful, low-waste ideas for neighbours, friends and families who want a little more heart and a little less “holiday leftovers” this year. Cozy, creative, and (thank goodness) clutter-free. 25. Kids’ art sale Children create drawings, cards or mini masterpieces, and families donate to “buy” their favourites. It’s wholesome, low-cost and lets kids feel proud of contributing. Keep your materials simple — recycled paper, pencils, paint you already have. 26. Neighbourhood cookie jar swap Everyone brings a jar filled with homemade biscuits, slices or festive snacks and donates a small amount to swap for someone else’s. It’s community-building and delicious. 27. Community gift-wrapping station (using recycled materials) Set up a table with recycled paper, old maps, fabric scraps or brown paper and offer simple gift wrapping in exchange for a donation. It’s fun and creative. And a great way to show how good reuse can look. 28. Handmade decorations contest Families or neighbours make ornaments from recycled or natural materials, then vote with small charity donations. It’s a joyful way to spark creativity and keep new plastic decorations out of Christmas. Optional: Offer a trio of Christmas chickens as the prize for the winning creation. Ready to wrap things up? Are you hoping to make Christmas feel a little lighter and a lot more meaningful? Oxfam Unwrapped is an easy place to start. We work with communities around the world to fight the inequality that fuels poverty and respond to urgent humanitarian crises. That includes supporting clean water projects, helping people recover after disasters, and advocating for climate justice and First Peoples’ rights. Each card funds work that helps people lift themselves out of poverty — and gives your loved ones (or your office) something to smile about. Explore the full Christmas collection, wipe the floor with the famous Toilet Paper card, or keep the ideas flowing with our Secret Santa guide. Give what matters. Skip what doesn’t. And enjoy a reel-y punny Christmas that does a little more good. 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25 of the Best Corporate Gift Ideas
Let’s get real for a minute — many corporate gift ideas end up collecting dust faster than the office printer. This year, give something that actually reflects your company values, gets people talking, and does genuine good in the world. Enter Oxfam Unwrapped: clever, meaningful company gift ideas that do good (and feel good to give). Each card funds life-changing projects that help communities lift themselves out of poverty. And as a bonus, they’re delightfully punny. So, whether you’re thanking clients, rewarding staff, or planning your next round of corporate gift options, skip the forgettable swag. Here are some corporate gift options that show your brand means business in the best possible way. Corporate gifts that spark good conversations Give your clients something to talk about. The kind of gift that makes everyone smile long after the morning coffee’s gone cold. These Oxfam Unwrapped cards are guaranteed to start conversations, raise eyebrows, and lift spirits — all while tackling poverty head-on. Goat card: the gift that keeps on bleating This crowd favourite funds programs that help families build secure livelihoods through farming and training. In other words, it’s the greatest of all time. It’s cheeky, memorable, and a perfect way to show your company’s got a sense of humour and a heart. How to gift: Send a goat straight to their inbox — no barn required. Honey card: sweet deal for busy bees Support sustainable beekeeping projects that provide women with training in environmentally-friendly businesses so they can build stronger livelihoods. It’s a top pick for teams who know how to stay buzz-y while doing good. How to gift: Give a Honey card and watch your sustainability credentials take flight. Toilet paper card: a splash hit Flush with meaning, this card supports clean water, sanitation, and hygiene projects that are vital for health and dignity. It’s light-hearted, a little cheeky, and the most impactful toilet humour you’ll ever use in business. How to gift: Send a Toilet Paper card to colleagues who appreciate a clean joke and a cleaner world. Forest card: tree-mendous for the planet This Forest card helps farmers boost their crop yields, create a more stable and reliable food supply and transform the lives of people living in poverty. It’s a breath of fresh air in a world of wasteful gifting, perfect for brands growing greener roots. How to gift: Plant the idea with partners who care about climate action. Gifts that show your values Every business has a mission statement. But few can wrap theirs up with a bow and an invoice. These corporate gift ideas let you prove your values (and get a few smiles while you’re at it). Clean energy: power move Back projects that bring clean, reliable energy to communities. Because nothing says “future-ready” like renewable power and a well-timed pun. It’s a future-focused signal that your brand backs practical climate solutions. How to gift: Send a Clean Energy card with your next sustainability report — watt’s not to love? Disability rights: access all areas Support programs that promote inclusion and equal rights for people with disabilities. It’s a powerful way to show your company culture goes beyond buzzwords and actually walks (or rolls) the talk. How to gift: Choose Disability Rights to celebrate accessibility wins or your next inclusive design milestone. Rainbow inclusion: pride, not just in June Help fund initiatives that protect and uplift LGBTQIA+ communities all year round. It shows your values don’t clock off and you’re building a culture where everyone belongs. How to gift: Share Rainbow Inclusion with colleagues or partners who light up your team. Straight Talk: women’s empowerment, loud and clear Support Oxfam’s Straight Talk program fostering Indigenous women’s leadership and participation in decision-making. It’s a confident commitment to gender equality, from the meeting room to the halls of power. How to gift: Give a women’s empowerment card to recognise emerging leaders or trailblazing mentors. Corporate gift ideas that give back all year round Quarterly reports come and go, but impact like this sticks around. These gifts don’t just make a statement — they keep the good going, quietly outperforming any fruit basket on long-term returns. Safe refuge for women: shelter that changes lives Help Oxfam provide safe spaces for women and children escaping violence. A powerful gift that says your company believes everyone deserves safety and respect. It’s meaningful, compassionate, and shows real leadership (the kind that makes values visible). How to gift: Give a Safe Refuge For Women card when celebrating new partnerships or values-driven milestones. Christmas garden: the gift that keeps on growing Help families plant and harvest their own food all year round. It’s a garden with serious growth potential — perfect for companies that like to see things flourish (clients included). How to gift: Send a Christmas Garden card to nurture goodwill that lasts longer than the pudding. Clean water: water you waiting for? Fund clean drinking water and hygiene training that keeps communities healthy. Hydration and innovation in one neat package? That’s the kind of pipeline that makes everyone smile. How to gift: Share a Clean Water card when you want your gratitude to really flow. Menstrual supplies: because equality isn’t optional Support access to period products and education so girls and women can study, work, and lead with confidence. It’s a small but mighty reminder that equality belongs on every agenda, no awkward silences required. How to gift: Give a Menstrual Supplies card when celebrating progress that actually matters. Emergency food supplies: fuel for the future Provides nutritious food for people affected by crisis while helping rebuild livelihoods long-term. Consider it your company’s contribution to sustainable growth (fuel for futures, not just the next deadline). How to gift: Send an Emergency Food Supplies card when saying thanks to teams who always deliver. Corporate gifts that make employees feel valued Good teams meet deadlines. Great ones lift people up along the way. These gifts are perfect for celebrating milestones, recognising effort, or saying a big “thank you” without the awkward all-staff email. First Aid: a workplace hero Help improve health outcomes for the First Nations communities. It’s a smart way to honour your team’s problem-solvers (you know, the ones who patch things up long before HR gets involved). How to gift: Send a First Aid card with a note that says, “Thanks for fixing everything from spreadsheets to spirits.” Chicken: proof that teamwork works Fund programs that help families raise chickens for food and income security. It’s perfect for teams who know how to get things done and don’t mind ruffling a few feathers along the way. How to gift: Give a Chicken card to celebrate your next big win (extra points if they know they’ve done an “egg-cellent job”). Duck: keeping things running swimmingly Support sustainable farming projects that boost family incomes and nutrition. It’s ideal for colleagues who glide through deadlines like it’s no big deal — calm on the surface, paddling like mad underneath. How to gift: Send a Duck card when your team deserves a moment to float. Watermelon: slice of success Help families grow and sell fresh produce, improving food security and income. It’s a refreshing way to recognise great work (sweet, bright, and full of good seeds). How to gift: Share a Watermelon card to celebrate achievements worth savouring. Thoughtful extras and ethical add-ons Once you’ve picked your Oxfam Unwrapped cards, you can build on the impact with a few thoughtful extras to add a little flavour, freshness and fun. Think of them as the cherry on top of your ethical sundae (locally sourced, of course). Fairtrade coffee and tea: you brew-ty Upgrade your next client catch-up with beans that are as fair as your billing cycle. Every cup supports farmers earning a decent income and safer conditions. Why: it keeps your ESG goals percolating nicely between meetings. Where to find: Try Fair Coffee for a fairtrade cup of coffee that feels as good as it tastes. Ethical chocolate: a sweet ROI Because nothing says “team appreciation” like corruption-free cocoa. Choose Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance-certified bars that treat farmers fairly. Why: it’s delicious proof that good ethics really pay dividends. Where to find: Go to Fair Coffee for a hot chocolate hit, or explore Be Slavery Free’s Chocolate Scorecard. Native seed or plant kits: grow-getters Send a little greenery that keeps on giving. Desk plants boost moods, clean air and give you something else to talk to on Zoom. Why: perfect for brands that love growth stories, minus the corporate jargon. Where to find: verified Aussie nurseries and native plant suppliers (just steer clear of anything invasive). Reusable stationery: write on brand Refillable pens, recycled notebooks and eco folders shout “sustainability” louder than your quarterly report. Why: proof your company can make its mark without leaving one. Where to find: explore the B Corp Directory for local eco-stationery legends. Body and self-care goodies: the spa-cial touch Cruelty-free soaps and candles from social enterprises create local jobs and smell like success. Why: a little self-care for your staff and a big lot of care for the planet. Where to find: browse Social Traders Australia for certified social-enterprise producers. Local gourmet gifts: sweeten the deal Fill hampers with small-batch jam, sustainable olive oil or honey from community beekeepers. Tastes good, does good, looks good. Why: good for bees, good for business and great for everyone. Where to find: choose verified B Corps or Fairtrade suppliers (reusable jars earn bonus ESG points). Experience gifts: corporate team-building with benefits Trade another branded umbrella for a volunteering day, tree-planting, or charity fun-run. It’s bonding, but with better snacks. Why: you’ll grow team spirit and community roots at the same time. Where to find: local councils and conservation groups often welcome corporate volunteers (don’t forget the photos for LinkedIn). Bundle with purpose Mix an Unwrapped card with one or two of these extras for a combo that’s clever, kind and conversation-worthy. Because great gifting shouldn’t be complicated (or boring). How to choose the right corporate gift Finding the perfect corporate gift idea shouldn’t feel like navigating a budget spreadsheet. Here’s a quick guide to help you find something that lands well with your clients, your team and your conscience. 1. Start with your values If your company champions sustainability, equality or inclusion, your gifts should too. Let your principles guide your purchases (not the nearest end-of-year sale). 2. Think impact, not clutter The best gifts do something, not just sit there. Look for gifts that create real-world change, like Oxfam Unwrapped cards that support communities and spark conversation. 3. Make it personal (but not awkward) A handwritten note still beats a mass email. Add a message that connects the gift to your relationship — even a little humour goes a long way. 4. Check the credentials Look for Fairtrade, B Corp, or verified social enterprise suppliers. If you can’t confirm where it’s made or who benefits, keep scrolling. 5. Keep it practical Choose gifts people will actually use or remember. No one ever forgot the company that sent them a forest or toilet paper (card, not the real thing). 6. Skip the wrapping drama Digital gifts and e-cards save time, postage and the planet. Who knew convenience could come with this much heart? 7. Give choice where you can Offer a shortlist of options for staff or clients to pick from. Empowering people to choose the cause that speaks to them adds meaning and cuts down on guesswork. A great corporate gift doesn’t have to cost more, but as you can see it can mean more. When you start with purpose, the goodwill naturally follows (and the feedback emails get a lot nicer). Ready to wrap up? If you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly not here for another branded swag bag. You’re after something that lasts longer, feels better, and actually means something. With Oxfam Unwrapped, your next round of corporate gifts can fund real change — helping communities thrive while giving clients and teams a reason to smile. You can even personalise the card with your logo and contact details (good branding never goes out of style). And yes, they’re tax-deductible, which might make finance smile, too. Skip the filler. Send the good stuff. Explore the full range of Oxfam Unwrapped gifts and find the one that fits your brand’s heart. Because great gifts don’t just look good, they do good. And honestly, that’s a wrap worth celebrating. Are you looking for corporate Christmas gifts? We’ve got some ideas on that, too.
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7 Christmas Gifts for Someone Who Has Everything
Finding the perfect gift for someone who seems to have it all can be a struggle. Another gadget? They’ve got the latest. More clothes? Their closet’s overflowing. *Cue dramatic sigh* But what if we told you there’s a gift that won’t collect dust, won’t need to be returned, and might just make the world a teensy bit better? Oxfam Unwrapped charity gift cards are perfect for anyone who’s got plenty. These cards are the most adorable way to spread joy beyond your immediate gift-giving circle! Think of them as kindness in an envelope—adorable, meaningful, and guaranteed to bring smiles. The power of Unwrapped Christmas cards These aren’t your typical “I-didn’t-know-what-to-get-you” gift cards; they’re powerful little packages that transform into tangible support for people working their way out of poverty. Here’s how they work: Oxfam Unwrapped charity gift cards let you donate on your loved one’s behalf, supporting life-changing initiatives like empowering women, providing clean water, or helping improve access to healthcare. So, while your gift recipient gets to feel warm and fuzzy knowing they’ve helped make a difference, your tax-deductible donation is supporting Oxfam’s initiatives worldwide. It’s like hitting the thoughtful-gift jackpot – no wrapping paper required! What to get someone who has everything 1. Christmas Goat Gift Card SHOP NOW Pardon the pun, but our Christmas Goat gift card might just be the most baa-rilliant present you’ll give this year. When you choose this gift, you’re not just sending a cute card with a goat on it (though it IS pretty adorable); you’re contributing to Oxfam’s life-changing programs that help Timorese women transform from aspiring entrepreneurs into successful business owners. Here’s what makes this gift so special: Provides women with essential business training Opens doors to financial services and savings groups Creates sustainable income opportunities Builds business management skills Enables women to expand their enterprises over time As Ana, one of the program participants, puts it: “I felt a big change in my life… I could leave behind my life where I was unemployed and not productive to build a kiosk and continue to save money for my next dream.” Now, that’s what we call a Christmas miracle! 2. Christmas Fish Gift Card SHOP NOW “What did you get for Christmas?” “Oh, just helping protect an entire ecosystem and empowering local communities, NBD.” How’s that for a conversation starter? When you gift our Christmas Fish gift card, that’s precisely what your loved one may be a part of. Why? Because this present supports incredible women in Cambodia who are working hard to protect the Mekong River ecosystem. Here’s why this gift is off the hook: Supports sustainable fishing practices Helps protect endangered species Empowers women to become environmental leaders Contributes to vital research and monitoring Preserves precious ecosystems for future generations So, while others are probably unwrapping yet another pair of socks, your gift recipient will be part of a movement changing lives for communities that depend on healthy waterways to thrive. 3. Christmas Garden Gift Card SHOP NOW Ever wished you could give someone their slice of paradise? Well, this Christmas garden gift card comes pretty close! While it might not arrive in a wheelbarrow with a big red bow, it delivers something even better – the power to help families in refugee camps grow their own kitchen gardens. What blooms from this gift: Sustainable food sources for displaced families Income-generating opportunities Practical skills in farming and composting Women’s economic empowerment Stronger, more resilient communities So this Christmas, when your loved one opens their gift, they’ll be thrilled to know they’re part of a fantastic story helping families harvest not just food but also hope. 4. Christmas Duck Gift Card SHOP NOW Want to help create sustainable food solutions? Our Christmas Duck gift card could be the start of something amazing! This present funds Oxfam’s work in teaching communities the skills needed to start their own businesses, like farming. But the beauty of these programs lies in their ripple effect: Once families master farming techniques, they’re no longer dependent on external food sources. They become producers, growing enough to feed their families and often generating a surplus to sell. The income earned goes into community savings groups, allowing families to expand their agricultural ventures and help others do the same. This Christmas, give a gift that helps families feed themselves. Because when you help someone grow their own food, you’re helping them grow their independence, too. 5. Christmas Handloom Gift Card SHOP NOW Our Christmas Handloom gift card is the coolest way to make a difference without breaking a sweat. This present helps incredible entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka turn their creative skills into successful businesses. You see, running a small business in Sri Lanka comes with challenges—poor access to reliable market information, inefficient supply chains and poor or no storage facilities are just some of them. The handloom gift card changes all that. Here’s what makes this gift sew amazing: Shares business smarts Connects artisans to proper markets Helps turn creative talents into real income Creates opportunities for women who are often excluded in this community It’s perfect for that friend who keeps saying, “Please, no more stuff!” (We all have one!) 6. Christmas Chicken Gift Card SHOP NOW Looking for a pressie that’s less ‘here’s another thing’ and more ‘here’s hope for an entire family’? Our Christmas Chicken gift card is that gift. Choosing this means you’re funding Oxfam’s work, equipping women with business skills and savings plans. These programs allow families to save for future needs, whether children’s education or better healthcare. In short, here’s why this gift is egg-ceptional: It starts with chicken-raising skills and then grows into vegetable gardens with tomatoes, watermelons, and chillies. Before you know it, families are saving enough to invest in other ventures–-like goats, cows, and even small businesses! Think about it: while your mate’s kids are playing with their new toys this Christmas, the impact of your gift could be helping other kids get an education, access better healthcare, or watch their parents build a sustainable family business. 7. Christmas Cow Gift Card SHOP NOW For a present that’s udderly amazing this holiday season, pick our Christmas Cow gift card—a present that helps create powerful circles of women who lift each other up while building better futures for their families. It’s like making an investment club but with more impact and way less paperwork! Here’s why this gift creates such powerful ripples: Kickstarts women’s savings circles Creates supportive business networks Builds community safety nets Enables shared knowledge and resources Powers collective business dreams into reality So this summer, instead of adding to the pile of presents under someone’s Christmas tree, why not help build a circle of support that changes lives? More gifts for people who have everything Still hunting for the perfect pressie? We’ve got more life-changing gifts up our sleeve that’ll make your impossible-to-buy-for friends and family crack a big smile. For your mate who loves a good laugh, check out our quirky gifts collection. From life-giving water cards to honey-making initiatives, these gifts are perfect for that friend who appreciates both a good laugh and a good cause! Got some mini changemakers to shop for? Our gifts for children section is packed with presents that’ll teach the next generation about giving back. Plus, they’ll love knowing their gift is helping other kids around the world. For the guy who says, “Don’t get me anything,” but secretly loves a thoughtful pressie, our gifts for him collection has options that’ll impress even the most present-resistant fellow. Or perhaps you’re shopping for someone who could give Marie Kondo a run for her money. Our gifts for her selection is full of meaningful presents that won’t clutter her space but will fill her heart with joy. How to Buy a Charity Christmas Card An Oxfam Unwrapped charity Christmas gift card is a practical and meaningful way to make a difference in the world. Simply select a card type, choose your impact amount and we will post or email the gift on your behalf. Choose a gift card here. Customise your Christmas gift card with a personal message. Send your unique Christmas gift card via mail or email to your loved one. Your donation goes to those who need it most View all charity gifts
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Unique Christmas Present Ideas For All The Special People In Your Life
We get it—Christmas shopping can be tricky. You want something thoughtful, something special… but how many mugs, socks, or gadgets does one person really need? Here’s an idea: instead of giving another “just okay” gift, why not give something with a lasting impact? With Oxfam Unwrapped charity gift cards, you’re not just checking a box on your holiday list—you’re changing lives. Each Unwrapped gift card helps fund Oxfam projects that tackle the root causes of poverty. Our projects partner with local communities to bring life-saving humanitarian aid, long-term poverty solutions, and real social change to communities around the world. Ready to spread some holiday cheer and make a positive impact? Here are unique Christmas present ideas.
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7 Fun and Charitable Christmas Gift Ideas for 2025
If you’re looking for the ultimate Chrissy pressies—gifts that support a cause and spread joy—we’ve got you covered. Here’s our curated lineup of seven charity Christmas gifts for 2024. From empowering Timorese women and their families to supporting fishing communities along the Mekong River, each gift represents a lifeline extended to communities worldwide.
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How to Ask for Donations as Gifts this Christmas
Asking for donations for weddings instead of gifts has become more popular in recent years but can still be a delicate topic at Christmas when presents are so central. We don’t want to deny our friends and family the joy of hunting for the perfect presents and eagerly awaiting the moment they see our faces light up as we unwrap their gift. But maybe you have everything you need this year, want a more sustainable Christmas or truly want to make a difference in someone else’s life. Whatever the reason is, if you’re looking for the right way to do this, here are polite and creative ways to approach the idea of donations as gifts with friends and family this year.
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