Afia Ohemeng
‘Tis the season of giving. As routine as it sounds, it brings a sense of comfort to those who celebrate Christmas or those who are simply looking forward to enjoying the holidays.
Christmas usually comes with people making donations towards orphanages and other kinds of children’s homes. This season, we’re providing you with 6 ways to make your donations more meaningful to the kids you have in mind (and heart).
1.No expired goods
You may have the Christmas spirit without the Christmas funds and that is totally understandable. Nevertheless, avoid purchasing food and other edibles that are expired or are damaged just because they are cheaper. Expired food may cause health problems. Do the best you can with the little you have. The children will surely appreciate it.
2. Donate only fairly used clothing.
Making clothing donations is a great way to clear out your closet while you contribute to a good cause. That being said, make it a point to donate wearable clothing. Such clothing could include that wonderful skirt that no longer fits or the shirt you have which is a size smaller. Donating clothing which are missing numerous buttons, zips or even armpits is a no-no. Those wearing your hand-me-downs deserve to look good too. If the item is extremely faded,keep it; if it has a rips because it’s fabric is old, keep it; and all the elastic is frayed out, keep that too.
3. Try to stay away from junk food.
Yes, food is important during the holidays (and every other day) but heaping trucks with fizzy drinks and other sugar packed edibles may not be the best choice. Be sure to purchase healthier options when you choose to make a donation. Provide them with items that have better nutrition.
4. Toiletries and sanitary goods.
Homes for the needy are usually tight on money for some of the ‘normal’ things others never notice. Bathing soap, detergents, antiseptics (think Dettol, Camel), first aid kits, sanitary towels, toilet rolls,deodorants and bath towels make a great addition to your donation package. Those running the homes definitely want to be in a more hygienic situation but are unable to since they can’t fund everything on their own.
5. Books, stationery
Education is truly the key the kids need. Through imagination and role play, these kids are able to aspire to greater heights. Donating textbooks and other literary items opens up a different world. Some children’s homes also offer educational services to the kids in their care. Look around your house, pack up the textbooks which are just gathering dust and box them up off to those who really need it.
6. Engage the kids
Don’t just dump the items off, take a few pictures and beat it. Take some time off your schedule and plan some interesting activities for the kids. If you’re a team, it would be best to decide how to entertain the kids considering what each person is good at. Creating a puppet show with donated toys is also a good idea. Remember to also interact with the older children. The teens/adolescents may be a bit withdrawn and in their own space but they will surely love the attention and conversation.
No matter what you plan to do for others this Christmas, remember to make sure they are things that have a purpose. You can provide medical aid on order to give relief to sick kids, donate healthy food items and give out books to improve the literacy of the wonderful children.
