Think Outside the Box for Thoughtful Last-Minute Gifts

Although it’s the time of year to make a list and check it twice, a recent poll found that on average, three in 10 gift purchases during the holidays are done at the last minute or within a day of giving the gift.

We all understandably want our holiday shopping experience to be more convenient and try to avoid lineups, crowded stores, and parking lot traffic whenever we can. For an easy and convenient last-minute gift, why not consider a charitable donation?

Many charities offer gift options for the holidays. For example, you can make a donation to the Canadian Red Cross in support of items like winter blankets that provide warmth and comfort to those facing rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. You can also send a paper or electronic card to let the recipient know you’re in their thoughts this holiday season.

These kinds of items can help some of the millions of refugees and migrants around the world who will spend this winter in refugee camps — making a charitable donation a heartwarming gift in more ways than one. Even as a last minute online purchase, charitable gifts are the perfect way to spread the true spirit of the season.