I know that there’s going to be a lot of people at malls today. People are hunting down a great deal or trying to find the perfect gift at a great price. I wouldn’t be caught dead in a mall today – I don’t enjoy shopping on the best day, let alone when I know it’s going to be crazy busy. I make a list and get in and out as fast as I can. I definitely don’t find shopping fun or relaxing like some people do.
While I totally understand wanting to get a good deal, I think it’s easy to take it a little too far. So I thought I’d share a little about my favourite charities. Can you imagine the difference it would make if everyone going to the mall made even a $10 donation to their favourite charity today as well as stocking up on Christmas gifts?
Right to Play Donate here
From their website:
Play is not a luxury; it is a tool for education and health. It can bring entire communities together and inspire every individual. A game of football can teach children about tolerance and peace, a game of tag can teach about malaria. Our mission at Right To Play is to use sport and play to educate and empower children and youth to overcome the effects of poverty, conflict, and disease in disadvantaged communities. Our vision is create a healthier and safer world through the power of sport and play. Right To Play’s values reflect the best practices of sport and play: co-operation, hope, integrity, leadership, dedication, respect, enthusiasm, and nurture.
Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders Donate here
From their website:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organisation that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters and exclusion from healthcare. MSF offers assistance to people based on need, irrespective of race, religion, gender or political affiliation.
I’ve been a big supporter of MSF for years now. They do amazing work is some of the most dangerous places on earth. They’ve been at the forefront of the ebola epidemic since it started in the spring. I know when I donate my money is being put to good use.
Ronald McDonald House Donate here
From their website:
Helping a sick child fight their illness takes a big enough emotional toll on a family. Adding a financial strain can make it all almost too much to bear. RMHC can help address those problems, whether they involve housing that’s near a hospitalized child, the expense of staying together in another city, or even getting basic medical and dental care in a vulnerable community.
I had some family need to use Ronald McDonald House in the past. They said it made such a difference to be close to their daughter while she was in the hospital having surgeries.
Your local humane society/SPCA
I know I’m not the only one who’s had pets make a difference in my life, and I hate to think about some of them not having a home and family. Check out your local SPCA and donate or volunteer.
Your local homeless shelter
I know I take for granted the fact that I have a safe, warm place to sleep every night, when so many people in my city don’t have that. Especially with the cold weather now, shelters are even more important to keep people warm. Contact your local shelter and find out about volunteering, donating warm clothes/blankets, or money.
Do you have a favourite charity you give to? Leave me a comment telling me about it.