One of the things that has always been a part of my mission with this site is to encourage charitable giving, even on a budget. With so many opportunities for giving through the holiday season, I thought it was the perfect time to highlight your ideas! I’ve already been enjoying reading how others are giving of their time and talents through Kingdom First’s 30-Day Giving Challenge. My friend Jen is participating, even as she deals with financial struggles in her own life.
I don’t always have a lot of extra money either but we still try to give of our excess regularly—passing winter coats on to Coats for Kids, “buying” free groceries with my coupons for the food pantry, cleaning out the toy bins regularly for children at the domestic violence shelter. None of it costs extra money out of pocket but can have such a big impact on someone else’s life. As you track down great deals on toys and games for your own family, please consider choosing something for a Christmas Shop or Angel Tree, especially if you can get great items at such a great price. I will also pay attention to seasonal grocery deals and purchase one for Thanksgiving dinner and one for the food bank. It’s a great way to work charitable purchases into the budget.
Money Saving Monday: Coupon Storage
Just read an article in the Western Herald from Michigan on a concept called BorrowMe.com where you can give or lend your stuff. A good way to make use of all that clutter in our garages and basements.