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Grinch window display in an Oxfam Store
  • 5 mins read time
  • Published: 29th November 2024
  • Blog by Mark Sweeney

Make Christmas Shopping Meaningful: Give a gift that gives back

 

Every year, the countdown begins—Christmas is coming, and with it, the rush to find gifts for everyone on the list. 

How many of us have felt the familiar last-minute panic and ended up grabbing whatever's quick and easy, hoping it fits the bill? 

This year, why not break the cycle and make your Christmas shopping something that truly gives back? 

When you shop at your local Oxfam Ireland store, the money you spend does more than just cross names off your gift list. It helps support life-changing work worldwide, tackling inequality, the root cause of poverty and injustice. Here’s why Oxfam Ireland should be on your radar as your one-stop Christmas shop, where you’ll find gifts that give twice. 

 

Unique finds that tell a story 

Gift display of vintage items.
Gifts selection display at one of our store

Imagine picking out a gift with a little story behind it. Each item on the shelves of an Oxfam shop is packed with potential. It could be the perfect book that won’t be found anywhere else, a quirky vintage mug, or a classic scarf just waiting for a second chance to bring someone warmth and style. Whether you’re looking for a Secret Santa surprise or a thoughtful stocking filler, you’re bound to find something that makes you smile, and it’s almost guaranteed to bring that same joy to the recipient. 

 

Say hello to sustainable shopping 

When you buy pre-loved, you’re embracing the circular economy, giving items new life, and helping reduce waste. And for those holiday parties and gatherings, why not pick up a festive outfit that’s as unique as you are? Oxfam Ireland has a wonderful selection of pre-loved clothes, with one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for the Christmas season. Imagine showing up to that family dinner or work party wearing something that’s both stylish and sustainable. 

Customer shopping in Oxfam shop
Browsing at one of our store

When you buy pre-loved, you’re embracing the circular economy, giving items new life, and helping reduce waste. And for those holiday parties and gatherings, why not pick up a festive outfit that’s as unique as you are? Oxfam Ireland has a wonderful selection of pre-loved clothes, with one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for the Christmas season. Imagine showing up to that family dinner or work party wearing something that’s both stylish and sustainable. 

 

Gifts with a purpose 

Our selection of fairtrade gifts
Our selection of fairtrade gifts

If you’re shopping for the socially conscious friend who already seems to have everything, you’re in luck. Oxfam Ireland shops carry ethically sourced gifts and Fairtrade items, from coffee sets to beautiful handmade accessories. These gifts have been chosen carefully to ensure that they’re fair to the people who crafted them and good for the planet, adding an extra layer of thoughtfulness to every purchase. 

 

Don’t forget the Christmas cards! 

Sometimes a Christmas card with a heartfelt message is the most cherished gift of all. Oxfam Ireland offers a range of Christmas card designs that capture the spirit of the season. Perfect for sending a little extra love across the world or simply calling into a friend down the road to deliver the card and catch up. With An Post ready to deliver anywhere in the world, a personal note can travel as far as you want it to this Christmas. 

Sometimes a Christmas card with a heartfelt message is the most cherished gift of all. Oxfam Ireland offers a range of Christmas card designs that capture the spirit of the season. Perfect for sending a little extra love across the world or simply calling into a friend down the road to deliver the card and catch up. With An Post ready to deliver anywhere in the world, a personal note can travel as far as you want it to this Christmas. 

 

Donate and do good 

Siobhan McSweeney with a big bag of clothes to donate
Siobhan McSweeney with a big bag of clothes to donate

While you’re heading to your local Oxfam Ireland shop, why not take a moment to bring along a few items you no longer need? That dress you haven’t worn in ages, a jacket or Christmas decoration that could bring someone else joy, or maybe even a gift from last year still tucked away and unopened. These are all treasures waiting for a second chance. By donating, you’re helping someone find that perfect item they’re looking for and adding to the joy of giving. So, drop off a donation, share the cheer, and let’s make this a Christmas of giving in every sense! 

 

Rediscover the joy of in-person shopping 

This year, why not skip the online carts and the scrolling, and set aside an hour to visit your local Oxfam Ireland shop? You never know what gem you’ll discover or how you’ll feel as you find that little something that just fits for someone special on your list. By shopping in person, you’re supporting your local community and making a difference, because every purchase you make helps fund Oxfam’s vital work fighting poverty and inequality around the world. 

Customer shopping in Oxfam Shops
A group of friends shopping at our shop.

This year, why not skip the online carts and the scrolling, and set aside an hour to visit your local Oxfam Ireland shop? You never know what gem you’ll discover or how you’ll feel as you find that little something that just fits for someone special on your list. By shopping in person, you’re supporting your local community and making a difference, because every purchase you make helps fund Oxfam’s vital work fighting poverty and inequality around the world. 

 

So, this Christmas, give a gift that says something meaningful. Show your friends and family you care about a better world. Make the season merry, make it bright, and make it count with Oxfam Ireland.