15 Gifts That Give Back and Do Good
Updated: Mar. 06, 2024
Give a gift that keeps on giving. We've rounded up the best gifts with a cause that support people and the planet.
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TOMS Slippers
After a day in the kitchen, it’s time to unwind with a cup of tea and some cozy slippers from TOMS. You’ve likely heard of this do-good footwear company before. They commit 1/3 of their profits to grassroots organizations working towards equity.
Packed with Purpose Gift Box
There’s a Packed with Purpose gift suitable for everyone—yes, everyone—on your list. This woman-owned business specializes in themed gift boxes that are loaded with impactful products. Think puzzles made from recycled materials, drinkware that increases access to clean water and snacks that support hunger relief, among others. Send your pal in need of a pick-me-up the “Make Them Smile” box, or ship the “Positive Vibes” box to your college student during finals week. The gifts with a cause options are truly endless!
Made Trade Cast-Iron Skillet
If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for ethically produced and fair trade items, check out Made Trade. This company is committed to bringing together the best goods from small companies. You’ll find brands owned by women or people of color, as well as products that are vegan, made in the USA and more. You can shop home goods, clothing and even furniture at Made Trade. Our favorite is obviously their kitchen selection which includes this cast-iron skillet made right in Portland, Oregon.
FEED Tote Bags
Everyone needs some reusable tote bags for the grocery store or supermarket (or to tote extras here there and everywhere). Why not make sure that tote bag does extra good? FEED helps fund school lunches for needy children across the globe. Since 2007, the company has donated more than 100 million meals! Snag a few hard-working totes for groceries or a new leather handbag from this brand.
Conscious Step Socks
Give books, protect toucans and support mental health—one pair of socks at a time. Conscious Step makes it easy to back a variety of causes near and dear to your recipient’s heart. Plus, each pair is ethically produced from organic cotton.
Hand in Hand Bar Soap
Bill Glaab and Courtney Apple—the founders of Hand in Hand—learned that children die each year from water-related illnesses. They also discovered that many of these deaths could be prevented with simple hand washing. They knew they had to find a way to help and were inspired to create Hand in Hand. For every bar of soap purchased, one bar of soap and one month of clean water are donated to a child in need.
Good Intentions Necklaces
Keep your best intentions close to your heart with a new line of necklaces from Ban.do. Featuring words like kindness, optimism and strength, these dainty adornments remind you to be your best. Plus, a portion of the proceeds goes to Girls Inc., a nonprofit that helps girls to grow up to be healthy, intelligent and ready to lead.
United by Blue Reusable Utensil Kit
United by Blue, a Certified B Corporation, is committed to removing one pound of trash from oceans and waterways for each item purchased. They are also committed to using zero plastic. You can commit to the same by investing in this reusable utensil kit. Toss it in your lunch bag and head to work or on your next hike.
Sand Cloud Towels
Make your next beach day more impactful with Sand Cloud. This San Diego-founded brand prides itself on donating a portion of its sales to marine conservation charities. Plus, these aren’t your mom’s scratchy beach towels. Each lightweight beauty dries three times faster than an average towel and gets softer with each wash.
WAKA Coffee
WAKA Coffee founder, David Kovalevski, set out to make a high-quality and delicious-tasting instant coffee that keeps you energized throughout the day. WAKA Coffee is made with 100% Arabica beans and comes in a recyclable box. Ready to give it a taste test? A percentage of profits are donated towards projects that help bring clean drinking water to 26 countries around the world.
Thrive Market
There’s a lot of reasons to love Thrive Market. This online grocer stocks tasty and sustainable products for every lifestyle. And, when you sign up for an annual membership, a free one is given to a family in need. For more, read our in-depth review.
Prosperity Candles
When you buy candles from Prosperity Candles, you’re purchasing a handmade product created by women artisans and refugees. This company helps these women become independent and secure. And the candles are gorgeous and smell amazing.
Uncommon Goods Nebula Rainbow Bracelet
There’s a lot to love about this stunning space-inspired bracelet. It’s handmade in Maryland and features a rainbow of nebula-inspired orbs. Plus, $5 from each purchase benefits The Trevor Project, an organization that provides resources and offers crisis intervention for LGBTQ youth.
Parks Project Puzzle
When unwinding in the wilderness isn’t an option, gift your friend the next best thing. This Yosemite National Park puzzle is a great way to relax while daydreaming of crossing off another National Park from your bucket list. Plus, your purchase from Parks Project supports the maintenance of this beautiful National Park.
World Wildlife Fund Species Adoption
Animal lovers will enjoy unwrapping an adoption kit from World Wildlife Fund. Available at a variety of price points, these kits help fund animal conservation efforts across the globe. Plus, they’re a great way to introduce younger activists to the importance of protecting wildlife. Choose from over 100 threatened species, ranging from cheetahs to polar bears.
Originally Published: February 08, 2022
