Top 10 Gift Ideas for Children's' Charities

Suggestions for Giving Gifts to Domestic and Foreign Missions

Years ago, I watched the pilot for the CBS series 'The Waltons'.  It was a Christmas special and took place in the economic depression of the 1930's. The Walton children had asked to go to town, taking the younger siblings where toys were being distributed from a ‘missionary barrel’.

The youngest child Elizabeth was longing for a doll. The Walton children watched as one nice thing after another was given out. They  waited politely in line as Mama had taught them. Finally their turn came but there was nothing left except a crushed and broken doll for Elizabeth.

I was 7, about the same age as Elizabeth and I cried my eyes out as she lovingly cradled that destroyed doll in her arms.  I didn't understand why very wealthy people would send such an obviously cast-off gift.   It was almost like a slap in the face.

I've thought about that show for 35 years. Our church like many others, hosts toy drives for local children. I love to see our van crammed full of the lovely boxes and packages for the children. I love that so many organizations, even stores are collecting gifts!

One year, a friend and I decided to have our two families (both 4 kids each) volunteer to box the gifts for shipment overseas to
our sister parish in Haiti. We learned some things in that experience that have guided us in our gift selection and I will share them with you.

We were pleased by the generosity and want in no way to sound negative. These are some considerations for choosing that might be of help when you want to give, but you think 'I just have no idea what to give!' First some do's and don't's:

1) Avoid anything electronic, battery-operated or games with lots of pieces. Children may not have access to the resources needed to enjoy these.

2) Avoid anything with liquid or glass. These items can break or spill and then it's useless to the child.

3) Avoid anything that requires other resources to use properly (computer, water, or even cement). Try to give toys that are sufficient in and of themselves.

4) Avoid war toys or games. Many of these children have seen enough violence to last a lifetime.