Preparing for Christmas Charity Drives

One of the most important things about Christmas is the caring and sharing that goes on. However, it can be really tough to give to all the charities you want to give to all at once, especially when you are also spending money on gifts, food and fun for the holidays. This year, I decided to start preparing for Christmas charity drives early. Really early. I began in February.

Photo: SXC

I kept a close eye on the after holiday sales and was able to pick up hats, scarves and gloves for as much as ninety percent off. I chose classic styles that will still be stylish for years to come and avoided faddy colors. Now, when this year’s hat and glove drives start, I can give many more new warm items than I did in previous years for less cash.

I also kept an eye on toy sales. If I saw a nice toy or game that wasn’t quite right for my guys’ ages, I picked it up and stowed it away anyway. When the Toys for Tots campaigns start, I can donate some great toys.

It is going to be nice to be able to still give things to my favorite Christmas charities even if the economy doesn’t recover as quickly as expected. Do you plan ahead to donate to holiday charities?