The charitable approach to Kris Kringle

Did you cringe this year at work when you read the name on the piece of paper you pulled out of the Kris Kringle hat, or was that the hissing on an extended 'yesssss'?

It seems to me, Kris Kringle is a work place activity either loved or loathed and participation a given.

Regardless of you sentiment, you still need to purchase a gift and I always seem to hear the same old question whispered at the water cooler "what do I get so and so"?

In previous edition of KK ideas we have covered th do's and don'ts, some suggestions for both sexes and ideas for different stereotypes.

This year it's still all about the gift ideas just those of a charitable nature.

And knowing you can't have your KK standing there with nothing to show, the suggestions below all provide your recipient the acknowledgement of the gift they have intern given.

There are endless charities in need of support especially at Christmas providing families across the globe with gifts, food hampers and donations. Here are but a few suggestions:

1. Oxfam have a range of Unwrapped Gifts that keep giving. For example you can purchase a Duck for $20 to provide a family with eggs and an environmentally friendly form or pest control. Your recipient will receive a card informing them of their gift and the benefits: http://www.oxfamunwrapped.com.au

2. The Kmart Wishing Tree provides people in need with presents to open on Christmas Day. Take a gift tag from under the tree to indentify the age and gender and then purchase and place  a suitable gift back under the tree. Or you can make a cash donation and Kmart will convert 100% to Kmart gift vouchers. Don't forget to take a thank you card to hand over to your KK: http://www.kmart.com.au/community/wishingtree/default.asp

3. Spirit of Christmas CD's are available from Myer and supports the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal. It's a compilation CD of carols sung by Australian singers such as Ricki-Lee, Archie Roach & Paris Wells. It retails for $19.95: http://gifts.myer.com.au/au_spirit-of-christmas-cd-2008_d_1309.aspx

4. Anglicare offers The Gift That Gives starting from $25 and goes to a child in need. You will receive a gift card to pass over to your KK: http://www.anglicare.org.au/how-can-i-help/donate

If you're still after present ideas check these previous articles for more inspiration
KK 2007 Ideas
KK 2006 Ideas

Published: 16 December 2008