Six Ways To Be Charitable This Holiday Season

We all like getting gifts.

Seeing a box wrapped in shiny paper and topped with a sparkly bow - it makes one feel special.

And when the pile grows below the Christmas tree, its a sight to behold all the love and joy we have between family and friends.

But remember the Grinch? How his heart swelled three times bigger when he realized the joy in giving?

After surviving Black Friday and Cyber Monday, its now time to be generous and do something for Giving Tuesday, an idea that started in the United States and is now spreading north of the border, to remind us all its also a time of sharing our wealth.
This time of year, its easy to share the joy of the season by doing something charitable and it doesn't always have to be a cheque in the mail. Here's six ways to do some good:

1. Take time to clean out that closet when you're looking for your holiday decorations - useable items can be dropped off to a charity shop, which helps give people employment and funds raised benefit the charity.

2. Buying for the holiday party season? Buy a few extra non-perishable items and donate at the grocery store to help a local food bank keep its shelves stocked for the season.

3. Perusing the shelves for the perfect gift? Look for gifts that are dual purpose, that will give you something for your loved one, and also share part of the proceeds going to a charity.

4. Encourage your family to get in the giving spirit - ask the kids to choose a toy to donate to a local toy drive to remember those who may not have as much as you.

5. Not sure what to buy someone with everything? Consider a donation on their behalf to their favourite cause - giving gifts like a goat to a family or providing medical care can make a difference.

6. Not every gift needs to be something in a box - give the gift of time - find an organization that needs time and two pairs of hands during this busy season.