Counting Pennies

I know this has nothing to do with saving money (in fact, I’m going to talk about something that involves spending money), but bear with me here. I’ve never been somebody to give much to charity (I’m not religious and growing up we often lack the money to even feed ourselves, let alone feed others), but when I was in the US, I did Operation Christmas Child every year. It involves filling out a shoe box with small items that are appropriate either for a boy or a girl: small toys, school supplies, hygiene items (toothbrush, comb, etc), and miscellaneous items ranging from lollipops to socks and flashlights. You then send or drop off the box (you can add a $7 donation to help with their shipping costs, but this is optional) to a charity that in Christmas distributes them to needy children.

This is a great frugal way to give. All items in the box can come from the dollar store or be found through sales and discount centers. You can spend as much or as little as you want in the box. You can also use it to provide a good example of how a meaningful present doesn’t have to cost a fortune. I know Christmas is still far, far away, but I ran across their website today and it reminded me that there’s no excuse for not sharing with others. So if you have some time and want to help, drop by their website to get more information and to give a little boy or girl something to smile about.

Other ways you can give on a budget:

Lion’s Club. Donate your old eyeglasses to help people in developing countries who can’t afford new ones.

Call to Protect. Donate your old cell phones to help victims of domestic violence.

Food For The Poor. Donate your old ink cartridges (yes, empty or dry ones are ok) for recycling. The organization uses all proceeds to feed the hungry.

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