Christmas is a time for families, friends and, of course the giving and receiving of presents. So this Christmas, instead of braving the crowds and trawling the high street, make a more ethical choice and opt for a gift that will be a joy to receive, as well as helping out a charity or foundation that really needs your support. There are some fantastic alternatives to traditional donations and it’s undoubtedly a present with a little more meaning during a period which can seem overbearingly commercial.  Be inspired with our selection of gift ideas from some very worthy causes…

Our pick of the fantastic charity gifts available this year...

(RED)

In almost five years, (RED) has raised over $160 million and helped more than five million people through HIV and AIDS programmes supported by the initiative. The Global Fund is the world’s leading financer of programs to fight AIDS, TB and malaria and is the recipient of (RED) funds. Working with big brands such as Apple, Gap, Nike and Penguin means that (RED) harnesses consumer buying power in a very positive way. Our top picks from (RED) for Christmas 2010 are Diptyque’s luxurious sensual scented candle and also the special limited edition Penguin Classics – these are bound to please any bookworm.

Cancer Research UK

Cancer Research UK has the most impressive selection of branded products ideal for stocking fillers, with most costing under £10, plus whatever you spend means crucial funds towards essential research into new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. Our favourites include Moleskine notebooks, quirky flag-printed mugs and cutesy tea sets for children. There’s even a section for pets, plus many second hand designer bargains to be had online – we spotted an elegant Jaeger Blazer and a classically chic Mulberry Brown Leather Belt.

Rainbow Trust

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity offers 24-hour support to families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness and relies almost completely on donations from the public. If you’re looking for a gift for the domestic goddess in your life, this charity has a great selection of homewares – and buying a statement piece or quirky ornament for the home never fails to please. We adore the hugging salt and pepper shakers and the fun mood mugs. There are three beautiful porcelain mugs to choose from: Happy as Larry, Monstrously Moody or Seriously Sleepy; a great choice for people who always have a cuppa on the go!

Oxfam

Oxfam Unwrapped is a fantastic scheme that gives the season of giving an even deeper meaning – providing gifts where they are needed most across the world. You can buy a gift that puts money toward building a classroom to training a farmer in the fight against poverty. And whatever you choose, you know it will make a big difference to someone somewhere and that it can really change lives. The Plant an Allotment gift helps feed a family and pay healthcare and education fees. Through buying the essentials needed to create working allotments – tools and seeds, training and education – this purchase enables a family to feed themselves and sell the surplus.

Oxfam also has a eclectic selection of second hand products to buy online plus a growing vintage section. Buying second hand is not only ethical and in support of a good cause, there are also lots of bargains to be had too! This beaded, sequin-embellished clutch is a perfect pick for a sophisticated gift or invest in a style staple for a fashionista friend with this Chanel-style navy jacket.

British Heart Foundation

Did you know that heart disease actually kills three times more women than breast cancer? The British Heart Foundation works with government and health charities and professionals, as well as dedicated supporters to beat heart disease. The charity has an impressive range of own-brand gifts and a well-organised site which makes browsing a cinch; you’ll even find sections offering items for Animal Lovers and Wine Buffs! For unusual and different gifts for children, we suggest the Grow Your Own Fairy Garden kit, or for budding entertainers, the Pocket Tricks Boxset – sure to provide a little light entertainment over the festive period! Know someone who is always running in heels?  We absolutely adore these Night Out Pumps which are designed to fold away and fit in your handbag.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation

EJAF’s mission is to offer support to innovative prevention programs and work towards elimating the stigma associated with HIV and AIDS – which affects an estimated 33.3 million people worldwide, including around 15.9 million women. To support the foundation’s vital work, Giles Deacon has collaborated with Happy Socks to produce limited edition boxes containing enough socks for seven days. The packaging is just as eye-catching and fun as the socks themselves – they’re definitely a bright alternative to the boring muted socks you may generally see on the men in your life!

See how The Plant an Allotment gift can really make a difference