Three in four Canadians say that many of the people that they buy gifts for at this time of year don’t actually need anything, as reported in a recent public opinion survey. Moreover, 23 per cent say they usually throw out some of the gifts they get.
Many things to give
UNICEF Canada cites these statistics in making the argument that Canadians should consider giving UNICEF Survival Gifts instead. People can choose and purchase such a gift on behalf of a friend or loved one and a card is sent to explain what the gift will provide.
Such gifts are sent to more than 140 developing countries. They may be things like vaccination packs, thermal blankets for refugee children, water purification tablets, special food for malnourished children and bed nets to protect against mosquitoes that transmit malaria and other diseases.
Survival Gifts have been popular
In 2015, Canadians bought almost 10 million of these kinds of gifts.
UNICEF says the survey asked Canadians what brings them joy during the holiday season. Most said spending time with family. Many said eating holiday meals and treats. And 82 per cent said donating to charity to help children in need.
No shortage of need
The charity notes there is no shortage of need in what it calls “a year of unprecedented humanitarian emergencies, unforeseen political events and rising inequality.”
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