A Purpose-Driven Gift Guide for the Last Minute Shopper
Edited by Director & Editor of Research, Irene Pedruelo
Despite my initial best intentions that 2019 would be the year that I am not down to the wire on my holiday shopping, I’ve found myself in this familiar place yet again. If you’re in a similar boat, fear not! We’ve got some ideas to help ease the pressure. First off, if a more simplified holiday is on your radar, here’s a wonderful ‘More Fun Less Stuff Gift Guide’ from the organization New Dream that is full of inspiration. And if you’re looking for ways to continue voting with your wallet this season? Here are a few ideas for gifts you and everyone on your list can feel good about.
Who Doesn’t Love a Candle?
These beautiful copper Sisterhood candles, handmade by women affected by war in Iraq, are that ‘I wish I bought one more for myself’ type of gift. There’s also soap and adorable knits for kids, and the profits from these sales directly support and empower more refugee makers and entrepreneurs. I also love this charcoal candle and soap set from The Adventure Project, that provides a family in Kenya with a new, charcoal-efficient stove and a solar light.
Coffee Time
Gift Pachamama Coffee and support small-scale farmers through this 100% farmer owned coop. Couple one of their single origin brews with this perfect mug by Love Your Melon that supports the fight against pediatric cancer. Or, check out United by Blue’s great mug collection for the outdoor lover in your life. For each product purchased, this favorite brand of ours removes a pound of trash from the ocean.
Eco Gear
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect sock, Bombas hiking socks are pretty incredible — and with each purchase you’ll be gifting a pair of socks given to someone in need. For all other clothing, check out Toad & Co’s great line of items made from recycled materials — I’m eyeing this sweater.
To put a dent in the 25% increase in trash that comes with the holiday season, check out Package Free Waste Shop. They have everything from no-waste lunch boxes and reusable straws to a quirky gem-shaped soap.
Beauty Buys
Lush’s Charity Pot Lotion is the perfect stocking stuffer — it smells heavenly and 100 percent of the price (sans tax) goes to support grassroots organizations like Sunrise Movement. Or try this lip balm from The Lipstick Lobby that supports the unPrison project, an organization focused on empowering incarcerated women.
Must-Read Books
Last but not least, a few good reads to inspire change: I’m currently digging Jonathan Safron Foer’s latest We Are the Weather and Ibram Kendi’s How to Be an Antiracist. Or perhaps a copy of Just Mercy to be devoured before seeing the movie!
Happy Holidays!
