Put an end to bad presents with Oxfam Unwrapped

Sick of giving socks and jocks for presents at Christmas? Oxfam Unwrapped aims to solve your gift giving woes with 60 fantastic gift ideas that will not only make life easier for you this festive season, but also for those working their way out of poverty.

The Unwrapped gifts include a range that help provide children with a brighter future through education; a simple desk and chair for $35; 10 school books for $50; and for only $150 provide school books for the whole class.

Other gifts include a water tank; emergency shelters; starting a community business; and new for 2008, a horse to help transport produce to market in East Timor.

Every gift in the catalogue represents a need identified by the more than 100 communities Oxfam works with around the world; allowing families to work themselves out of poverty. And with 60 gifts on offer, shoppers can find the perfect gift that best suits their loved one.

Here’s how it works:

A shopper goes on-line and chooses a gift for their friend, loved one or client. The recipient receives a personalised card explaining how their gift is used to help people overcome poverty.

“We’re on a crusade to end bad presents!” says Oxfam’s Arron Peacock.

“Because isn’t it time you liked what you unwrapped? Oxfam Unwrapped is a great way to give something truly unexpected and at the same time, make a real difference for people in need.

“For you, these presents are a fun alternative to more socks for dad or vouchers for mum. But to the families we help they have life-saving value.”

The Christmas 2008 Oxfam Unwrapped range is on sale now. The catalogue is available on-line at www.oxfamunwrapped.org.nz or call 0800 600 700.

Orders must be placed by 18th December to allow time for delivery.