Don't let the title of this post throw you. I don't mean that the donation suggestions are cheap as in "tacky." These donations are inexpensive (which makes them ideal for families and those on a tight income). I developed these ideas when I homeschooled our four kids. As a Catholic homeschool family our education focused around the liturgical year. Holy Week is the pinnacle of the church year. We practiced acts of fasting and almsgiving, in solidarity with our Lord and in preparation for our Easter celebration.Over our homeschool career, we explored many avenues of sacrifice and service. One activity that was very meaningful to us was really quite simple, but relevant. We are fortunate to live near several mission sites which provide immediate care and help to those in need. Our church also has a twin parish in Haiti. Many Staples outlets gather school supplies. I tweaked donation requests from these venues into an annual almsgiving activity. I think these activities would qualify for Jewish families as tithe and Muslim families as zakat offerings, too. Here's how it worked. Lent Almsgiving Activities
Green, Sustainable, Fair Trade Holiday Gift-Giving Ideas Whatever your religious views, if you participate in holiday gift-giving, why not consider giving green, eco-friendly, fair trade gifts this holiday season? Here gift-giving ideas from companies committed to using renewable, sustainable resources. 
Best Items to Donate to Thanksgiving and Christmas Canned Goods and Food Drives Tis the season for giving and my favorite type of giving is food, grocery and personal hygiene donations for food banks and homeless shelters. Here's a list of the canned goods and food donations to give this holiday season. 
