I’m learning I can shop with an awareness of giving back that benefits others. This might be a new concept to a whole lot of us so lets explore that idea.
Buying Groceries
All of us buy groceries because food is a basic necessity. Our families need to eat. But did you know by supporting grocery markets that donate to community needs, we are part of the blessing? For instance, Whole Foods Market promotes wellness initiatives through the Whole Kids Foundation. They promote school gardens that get boys and girls excited about growing and eating healthy foods like carrots, cucumbers, apples, . . . fruits and vegetables. That’s a store worthy of our support.
Trader Joe’s is another market that gives away 100% of foodstuffs cleared for sale yet safe for eating. Charities gain product to feed the hungry. Again, a company well worth our shopping time to help those in need.
Target is another store in partnership with Feeding America. Millions of pounds of food are passed along to meet the need of those in danger of going without. Target carries plenty of other products, too. They have just about any kind of gadget, electronics, clothing, yard and often a pharmacy, too. Multiple locations. Our dollars spent here keep doors open and product flowing to others. We become part of the solution, too.
Buying Footwear
Roma Boots founder Samuel Bistrian, merged a love for fashion with philanthropy. Based in Dallas, Roma Boots supplies sturdy, colorful rain boots to needy children in a vow to “give poverty the boot.” Are you or your children in need of winter boots? Perhaps you will bless self and help provide for someone else by purchasing Roma Boots this year. Romaboots.com
BOBS from Skechers shoes has a heart for animals. Shopping here helps save lives of shelter dogs and cats, throughout the United States, by partnering with Best Friends Animal Society, a no-kill organization. Skechers.com
Buying Toiletries and Cosmetics
We wouldn’t think of not owning a toothbrush. But did you know more than two billion people around the world don’t have a toothbrush? Startling but true. There’s a way for us to participate in bringing better dental health to others through Synced Smiles. For every toothbrush boMught (and they’ve many styles from simple to electric to natural) the company donates 10 more to people in less fortunate parts of the world. Syncedsmiles.com
Lipstick or other products in MAC’s Viva Glam lipstick line goes even further. 100% of the purchase price is donated toward the MAC AIDS Fund. Maccosmetics.com
Shop—With An Awareness of Giving Back
I’m challenged to be conscious of my shopping and hope you are, too. Let’s remember the storefronts where community helps are giving hope,. Most of us agree that it feels good to help others. Will you pray about how you can be a part of the solution to the world’s needs through your own shopping habits? You will still buy what you want but also be sharing with those who lack basic necessities.
Matthew 25:40 ” . . . Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Jesus)
