Holiday Shopping? Here are 6 meaningful gifts that give back

The holiday season is upon us and you may be wondering what to get for your loved ones in a year that has been particularly challenging for everyone. There are ways you can make your loved ones feel special while having a meaningful impact in the lives of those who don’t have enough.

Here’s a list of gifts and ideas that you can give to others while making a difference in the lives of refugee families struggling to survive during this difficult time.

1. Buy gifts made by refugees

There are many beautiful products that can be found online which allow refugees to earn a living and become self-reliant. A delicious, warm sweet treat from the Lancaster Stroopies Sweet Shop, stocking up on freshly-roasted coffee from the 1951 Coffee Company or purchasing one of the many products offered through UNHCR’s Made51 online store – that range from holiday ornaments to carefully selected homeware pieces - are fantastic gifts to give to your family and friends.

2. Wear a mask made by a refugee

Around the world refugees are stitching masks to protect themselves and keep their communities safe. They come in different fabrics and shapes that can be found here.

3. Use Amazon Smile

When shopping on Amazon you can support refugees by going into smile.amazon.com and selecting USA for UNHCR. The AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of your purchase for all of the AmazonSmile eligible purchases. 

4. Select USA for UNHCR in Paypal

When using Paypal, select USA for UNHCR as your favorite charity at the Give section on the Checkout settings. Then, every time you make an online purchase, you’ll have the opportunity to donate $1 to support refugees.

5. Send a handwritten letter

Nothing beats the thrill of opening the mailbox and finding a personal handwritten letter addressed just to you. This year you can send a warm message to those you care about, including refugee children and doctors and nurses on the frontlines. Thanks to the Letters of Love initiative, volunteers from around the world will translate, handwrite and send your letter.

6. Keep refugees warm

Still struggling to find the perfect gift? We have dozens of items that you can purchase from our Gift Catalog to help refugees. You can also donate $128 to provide a refugee family with a winter kit this cold winter.

Happy Holidays!