More Christmas...

In my last post, I shared ideas for participating in an Adopt-a-Family program for a local food pantry.  However, so many possibilities exist; some are better for getting children involved in the process as well.

While the choices are really endless, I want to mention a few that might be a jumping board for those of you who are wanting to get started or are looking for new ideas.

• If the idea of adopting a family is overwhelming or is too far out of your budget, consider donating a meal's worth of food to a food pantry.  A couple of suggestions:
• box of pasta, jar of sauce (spaghetti, alfredo, cheese), canned veggie and/or fruit, quick bread mix
• bag of rice, can of chicken, cream of chicken soup, canned veggies
• fixings for homemade pizza (pre-made pizza kit, pepperoni)
• cans of chili, cornbread mix
• can of chili, box of mac and cheese (the kind that doesn't need milk and butter)
• Make a meal for someone who may be more overwhelmed during this season, especially those working in jobs that get crazy in November and December, like retail workers.
• Buy a chicken (or other animal or milk or water or...) for a family in a third world country.  I have a special place in my heart for Compassion International and World Vision, because I have seen both of them at work in Haiti doing amazing things.
• Sponsor a child.  Again, you can go through organizations like Compassion and World Vision for ongoing monthly sponsorships, or you can help with much smaller organizations like Joy in Haiti and sponsor a child's education for a year or a semester.
• Buy a toy for Toys for Tots or any local program in your area holding a toy drive.
• If you have a passion for animals, contact a local shelter and see what their needs may be at that time. It may be a good time to collect things from family and friends to drop off for them, and it may not cost you anything but a little time.
• Consider making a visit to a nursing home.  (Call first to see if this is an option.)
• Take a treat to a neighbor (which does not have to be food related). 

Again, the possibilities are endless, and these ideas are only a drop in the bucket.

If you have children involved in this, having a visual reminder can be a good thing.  One very tangible way is to find a Christmas ornament with the theme of whatever it is you participate in.  For example, if you buy a chicken, find a chicken ornament.  (It is fairly easy to also find ornaments with children or various things that represent the world that can be used when it is too difficult to find the exact theme.  Last year, Kohl's had a good selection of cloth people ornaments from other countries.)  Write the date on the ornament somewhere with a permanent marker or paint pen.  Wrap the ornament and have someone open it first before any personal presents are opened.

One other suggestion is to take a look at the philosophy behind Advent Conspiracy.  Whether or not you share the same faith, the suggestions given are priceless on re-thinking gift-giving in order to provide for others (with clean water in their case).

Feel free to share your ideas.