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How to give back without spending a cent this Christmas

Easy ways to make the world a better place.
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Christmas is a time that many people in Australia associate with fun, frivolity, gift-giving and Santa photos, but for some of the less fortunate, sick or furry members of our society, Christmas can be tough. However, there are some easy ways you can make the world a better place this Christmas.

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WATCH: Coconut And Mint Crepes With Christmas Cake And Ricotta

Here we’ve rounded up seven ways for you to give back this Christmas.

1. Share the dignity

Simply grab a handbag (it could be new or lightly used) and fill it with practical beauty buys like shampoo, sanitary items, toothbrushes and deodorant – then throw in a few little luxuries like a lippy, book or some nail polish to make it extra special. Visit the Share the Dignity website for more information.

2. Donate blood

Donating blood is a great way to give back and doesn’t cost a single cent. Blood is surprisingly versatile and can be made into 22 different medical treatments, meaning every donation to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood can help save or change many lives. There is a certain criteria to meet before one can donate blood, however most people between the ages of 18-76 are eligible. It only takes 15 minutes and it could save lives.

3. Help Aussie animals in need

WIRES has been rescuing and caring for the native animals of Australia for more than 30 years and are always looking for donations. WIRES also accept second-hand goods such as bird aviaries and cages that are clean and in good condition. All donations help subsidise the costs of food for wildlife that are in the care of WIRES. 

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Kmart Wishing Tree

4. Toy and clothing drives

New clothes and toys can be fantastic Christmas presents for those struggling this festive season. Appeals such as Kmart Wishing Tree and Salvation Army are located in many convenient locations around Australia, which means making a family’s Christmas a whole lot better has never been easier. Remember, struggling families don’t just require clothes and toys. Non-perishable food, hygiene items – such as shampoo – and even books are all appreciated.

5. Cat Protection Craft Club

Cats love to curl up on something soft while taking a catnap, so if you’re handy with the knitting needles or love to crochet, the Cat Protection Craft Club is something to get involved in. Cat Protection Society is a no-kill shelter, meaning that they look after a variety of cats until they find their fur-ever homes and as a result, the company is always in need of blankets and toys. With patterns for blankets and toys for both beginners and experts, everyone is able to make and donate something the cats will love.

6. Swanky Socks

Help support local business Swanky Socks’ mission to give back. The Aussie business owned and operated by Tom Lawrence, makes soft dress and ankle socks from temperature-regulating merino wool, in Lane Cove, NSW. So if you’re planning to get dad a pair of socks for Christmas, how about considering a purchase from Swanky Socks, as for every pair they sell, they donate a pair to those experiencing homelessness.
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Christmas wreath

7. Christmas wreath

Looking for a wreath to hang on your door in the lead-up to Christmas? Don’t look far, Sydney Legacy has partnered with Floreat to create a Christmas wreath, made with eucalyptus and adorned with three silk poppies to honour Australian servicemen and women. Most importantly, 25% of the sale price of this wreath goes directly to Sydney Legacy to aid their support of the loved ones of our veterans.
 

8. Gin cocktail

Have you been designated as the bartender for your Christmas party? Well, then you’ll need a bottle of gin to add to your bar cart. Manly Spirits Co. has just released its latest limited edition gin release – The Beaches that’s perfect for tropical summer cocktails. Also, $5 from every bottle sold will go to the Australian Marine Conservation Society: Australia’s only national charity dedicated solely to protecting our precious ocean wildlife.

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