3 December 2013 is Giving Tuesday!

Quote of the day

To live charitably means not looking out for our own interests, but carrying the burdens of the weakest and poorest among us.

— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) November 25, 2013

Today, 3 December, is Giving Tuesday! Here are some ideas for Vancouverites on ways to contribute:

Buy a new toy for a child patient (Deadline: 16 Dec):

Thinking about donating gifts to the hospital? Take a look at these helpful guidelines – your generosity amazing! http://t.co/jreFclSUKS

— BCCH Foundation (@BCCHF) November 24, 2013

Donate [old] Cellphones for Seniors in the Downtown Eastside

Donate old prescription glasses to Third World Eye Care Society Canada

Give a charity gift card

Donate your hair!

Donate blood!

Pack a Christmas gift box for children in developing countries through Samaritan’s Purse

Sponsor a child through World Vision:

Make an even bigger impact! #SponsorAChild w/ your VISA card today & VISA will match your first monthly gift of $39! http://t.co/19DmUgmMVL

— World Vision Canada (@worldvisioncan) December 1, 2013

Take a photo on Instagram!

How are you making the world better? Instagram a photo w/ #SendForBetter and @wucanada will give $1 to #WorldVision http://t.co/CTzpevJzH0

— World Vision Canada (@worldvisioncan) November 22, 2013

Donate to victims of Typhoon Haiyan:

Until 9 23 December, the Canadian government will match every dollar donated to the disaster relief. Remember that Christmas is a time to share love and to help those in great need. For those of you who need an incentive to donate, note that as Canadians, our charitable donations are tax-deductible.

I’ve come up with a list of some (there are more) charities that are currently accepting donations for the victims. I would advise you to take a look at their websites for more information and to pick one that you feel most comfortable with. The links of each charity should direct you to the donation page.

Canadian Red Cross: 87% to relief
CARE: 94% to relief
Free the Children: 90% to programmes
MSF (Doctors Without Borders): 81% to relief
Plan Canada: 79% to relief
Samaritan’s Purse: 90% to relief
Save the Children: 87.2% to relief, of which 10% will be saved for the next disaster
SOS Children’s Village: ~80% to relief
UNICEF:
World Vision: 81.1% to relief
WFP (World Food Programme): 100% to relief