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For the socially conscious, holiday shopping becomes a series of small agonies. We wonder who made the tchotchke we’re contemplating, and how long it will take before it ends up as landfill, where it will sit for—5? 500?—years until it decomposes. We think about the endless Möbius loop of consumerism and whom it helps, and whom it hurts. We wonder if the social, economic and environmental impact of our gift will eclipse the joy of giving and receiving it. Frankly, it's exhausting.
Buzzkill, I know. But thankfully, there are manufacturers out there who have taken these issues to heart and offer gifts that promote what the season is really all about: helping others. You probably already know about a few large companies that run a “buy-one, give-one” model, such as Tom’s Shoes (and also, eyewear, coffee and bags), and Warby Parker, which donate an item to those in need for each one purchased. But here are a few brands with a conscience that likely didn’t make it onto your radar this year—but should.
Clothing and accessories
Bombas socks: These cushy socks come in bright colors and varying styles, and for each pair sold, another is donated to a homeless person—socks are among the most-requested items in shelters.
Sevenly: On-trend graphic and social-statement tees and sweatshirts for men and women support a different cause each week by donating 7% of sales. Similarly, Ten Tree plants 10 trees for each shirt, pair of pants or accessory sold.
Sseko Designs: Women in Uganda hand-make these elegantly simple ribbon sandals, bags and jewelry so they’re not only able to hold their own economically, but they’re also able to pursue a university education. (I'm also loving their postcards that read: “Say yes to adventure,” “Practice radical generosity,” “Surround yourself with people that believe in the best you” and “Be brave.” Always good reminders.)
Thirty-one Bits: Another Ugandan enterprise helps to empower women by providing good jobs, education, and a plan for the future—all within in a supportive community—through sales of festive, earthy jewelry. At least 16 women have "graduated" from the program to build their own businesses.
Sudara clothing: Best known for its Punjammies loungewear, Sudara trains Indian women escaping from the sex trade so they can have productive, healthy and free lives.
Cayetano Legacy Collection: Three sisters started this line of statement jewelry to honor the handcrafting techniques and source materials from their home country of the Philippines. Purchases support job training and economic stability where it’s much needed.
EverMaya: Colorful traditional huipil embroidered fabrics from Guatemala combined with leather become stylish bags (and also some home goods). A portion of every sale goes to a school in Guatemala for disadvantaged children where they can access education, nutrition, healthcare, counseling, and career guidance. In addition, 5% of proceeds from “The Madeline” line of handbags go to the National Down Syndrome Society.
For kids and teens
Bureo: It’s a creative stretch to make such snappy skateboards and sunglasses from discarded, recycled fishing nets in Chile, but it’s great someone thought to do this. These support recycling, economic development and job growth for locals.
Yoobi: Art supplies, notebooks, pens, organization tools—pretty much anything you can use in a school (or office) to foster creativity—come in vibrant colors. For each item purchased, another is donated to a school that needs it.
SparkGift: This site makes it a cinch to gift stock and index funds without bothering to go through a complicated brokerage transfer. You can also make wish lists so that friends and relatives can donate. Giving stock is a great way to make your gift grow, teach kids about money, and also cut down on all the stuff.
Bears for Humanity: Plush teddy bears are made with 100% organic cotton and hemp, and for each one sold, the buyer can choose a charity where its mate will go, such as Toys for Tots, Save the Children, or Expect Miracles Foundation.
Everything Happy: Inspired by a child’s idea to double the love, each “blankee” or plush pal sold means that another is given to a child in need at a hospital or orphanage.
Local + Lejos empowers artisans worldwide, and pays them double than what they'd normally make... [+]
Household
Raven & Lily: Paper products, home décor and even clothing and accessories are made by women around the world (including the United States). They learn job skills and become economically independent in the process.
Local + Lejos: The company partners directly with artisans around the world to curate exquisite a unique home décor collection. In addition to sustainable work and fair wages (at least twice what similar work earns for massive wholesale networks), the women get empowerment training, learn financial management, get health insurance and can keep their children in school.
SoapBox Soaps: Some serious diseases are preventable with simple measures such as hand-washing, which is why SoapBox donates product nationally and internationally for every item sold.
Baking for Good: Turn your Instagram photos into "Instagraham" cookies (or just order regular old non-social media inspired baked goods) and 15% of your purchase goes to a cause you can choose.
For more ideas, hit up online marketplaces ShopWithMeaning.org and Latch Co., and choose by category, geography or cause.
