6 alternatives to gift exchanges

Give to a food bank
Donating to food banks can also make a real difference. According to the Canadian Association of Food Banks, close to 800,000 people turn to food banks each month, and almost 40 per cent of these recipients are children.

Volunteer at a shelter
Families can also opt to focus their energies toward one of the hundreds of shelters for abused women and children. During the holidays, the United Way offers programs to make gift baskets to send to various shelters.

"Shelters try to help displaced families cope," John says. "Preparing baskets to give out is a very tangible expression of compassion."

Hand out presents to the homeless
Your family or group of friends can volunteer their resources to homeless children. According to the Canadian Institute of Child Health, the number of homeless families with children in cities across Canada is on the rise. In Toronto alone, 19 per cent of the homeless population is children.

The United Way offers opportunities for volunteers to purchase, make and/or wrap presents for homeless youth that they can really use, such as scarves, mittens, hats etc.

Ultimately, the time spent donating your energy to a worthy cause will be much more enjoyable than pushing your way through a crowded mall. Plus, the memory of working with your friends and family to help those in need will likely be more cherished than the usual trinkets and gifts you receive.