Christmas is over and now it’s time for the next holiday. The calendar year can seem like an endless cycle of celebrations we need to buy gifts for. The card companies and the commercials, the lingerie boutiques and the flower shops all want you to remember Valentine’s Day is on its way, and you better buy a present or you will be in trouble. This is the way we show we care. But is there another way? A way that shows you really care?

If you feel the need to shower your loved one with dozens of pink petunias, then go ahead if you think it will make him or her happy. But there is something else you can do. As well as drowning your lover in a sea of petals, why not think of getting them charity gifts?

Charity gifts are offered by some charities as a way of giving presents that give to the less fortunate. The first thing you need to do is to find a charity that supports a cause you believe in. Then you need to choose from the range of charity gifts available, one that means something to you and the person you are giving it to. You may want to save the polar bears, supply food to children in Pakistan, or help in the relief effort of the latest disaster. Your loved will receive a card explaining what you have done, and will no doubt think that you are great.

There are holidays throughout the year for which we are encouraged to buy presents to celebrate. Easter, birthdays, graduations, weddings, Christmas. And how many times have you just bought any old thing as a gift because you knew you had to buy something? Think of how many presents you have received that have ended up in the bin within a week of getting them. If you could spend just half of the amount you spend on unwanted presents on charity gifts, think how much good you could do.

Another way to help would be by choosing to sponsor a child. There are some very effective charities that help children in need around the world. By donating money to sponsor a child, you can help change children’s lives. Your money might help build a well and give clean water to a village, or it might help to buy educational supplies that will shape children’s futures. There are many ways to spend your money in ways that can benefit others. By not buying a useless present that is destined for the bin, you can choose to spend that money making a difference to someone’s life.