Cast your net a little wider this Christmas and give children everywhere some seasonal cheer.
We're all used to hearing "I want this, I want that" at this time of year, and we all love seeing the look on our children's faces when they open the perfect present — even if toddlers are usually more interested in the wrapping paper. But all too often Christmas means very little to thousands of disadvantaged youngsters in Australia and around the world. This year, do something different and help bring a smile to their faces, too. Here are some alternative gift ideas.
Money
Barnardos helps children across the country by providing support and assistance to families in crisis. Each Christmas the organisation provides food, clothing and gifts, so every child has something to celebrate. This year, Duracell has pledged to make Christmas even better by matching every dollar donated to Barnardos until the end of December. So give now and double your generosity. Visit www.powerasmile.com.au.
Education
A child is for life, not just for Christmas, and you can help a disadvantaged child long after the festive season ends by sponsoring them for a year. Do it through The Smith Foundation (from $27 per month) and your money opens the door to education and learning, the key to keeping Aussie kids off the streets. Visit www.thesmithfamily.com.au.
Nutrition
It's hard to believe, but more than 412,000 Australian children live below the poverty line, often going to bed hungry or surviving on one meal a day. A healthy diet creates healthy kids, so help a family have a happy Christmas with a Fruit and Vegetables for a Child in Need basket from Save the Children ($15). Visit www.savethechildren.org.au.
Health
A simple injection can keep most childhood illnesses at bay, but millions of kids living in remote areas around the world don't have access to such healthcare. Buy a Health Gift ($14) from UNICEF and you'll provide a vaccine carrier which will safely deliver vital vaccines to isolated destinations, saving the lives of the local kids. Visit www.unicef.org.au.
Toys
Since 1992, the Uniting Care Christmas Gift Appeal has distributed more than 1.5 million presents to disadvantaged children around Australia. Simply buy a present, wrap it and write on the label who it would be suitable for (age and sex), then drop it off at your local Target store, which will take care of it from there. Visit www.unitingcare.org.au.
Water
Make a difference to not just one child but many by providing fresh water for a school ($98) in remote areas of Asia. The installation of a pump means clean water for all, while helping everyone learn about water hygiene and conservation. Visit www.oxfamunwrapped.com.au.
Time
Help make sick kids' dreams come true this Christmas by volunteering at the Make-a-Wish Australia Foundation. The charity organises magical moments for children with life-threatening illnesses, and much of what gets done is achieved by volunteers — from raising money to organising the actual wishes. Visit www.makeawish.org.au.
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