What Type Of Gifts/Products Do Charities Need Most This Holiday Season
Gifts of products or services, also called in-kind donations, are a powerful way to support charity. It is also an intimate and personal way to ensure that the gift you give goes directly into the hands of someone who can use it, with no middle man or overhead usurping a portion. During the holiday season, gift drives represent a significant portion of the non-profit bottom line and are also an easy way for individuals to procure end-of-year tax deductions. Before you empty out your closet, double check with the charity of your choice to determine what they need most and follow this checklist.
Many non-profits and for-profit corporations run coat and clothing drives during December. Typically they include a request that the items donated be gently used. If your coats and jackets have rips, broken zippers or are so old and thread bare that they are no longer able to keep you warm in the winter, throw them out rather than donate them.
Toys
For some children, the toys received from a toy drive may be the only ones they get. Many houses of worship and schools run toy drives. These are an especially good way to get children in the spirt of giving to others less fortunate than themselves. Re-gifting unopened toys or purchasing new toys are both acceptable, but do not donate used toys unless they are of significant value, such as an American Girl doll or Tonka Truck, and refurbished to look completely new. Avoid video games or components which might require an expensive unit that the recipient child does not own. Toys should always be gift wrapped with an appropriate age range indicated.
Toiletries
Feel-good products for both men and women are highly sought after by hospices, hospitals, retirement homes and drives to support the military. Many of these are run by Scout troops or by non-profit institutions. Drug store items like makeup, shampoo, body wash, toothpaste and deodorant are good choices. These should be gift wrapped and labeled for men or women. Products to protect the feet are much needed by our troops and highly desired for military toiletry drives. Items like foot powder, foot warmers, liner socks, anti-fungal cream and toe nail clippers are all in short supply and much needed overseas.
Food
Food drives can be found outside of many supermarkets and pantries. Non-perishable items such as canned goods, bagged rice or boxed milk and soup can help sustain a family in need. Make sure the expiration dates are far in the future and that cans are not severely dented.
Ponytails
Hair drives benefit women and young girls with cancer who wish to wear wigs during their recovery. Typically, ponytails should be at least 8" long and untreated, virgin hair that is less than five percent grey. Check with your local salon to see if they are involved in a hair drive, or contact an organization like Thousand Locks to see if you qualify and can participate.
Find a Fit
If you own a store or manufacture products, there may be a charity that would benefit from your surplus merchandise. Everything from sweaters to plumbing supplies can be of value to those less fortunate. Contact local charities or hospitals to determine if they can utilize a sizable product donation and make sure to pick up the costs of shipping. Another way to support charities this time of year is by writing letters on their behalf to businesses requesting in-kind donations on their behalf.
