Shop to Benefit

Many of us love to shop and it's something hard to explain, especially to the men. With the Great Singapore Sale just over, I am going through a recovery phase (financially that is) thanks to all the retail therapy that I had over the last few weeks.

There's a great way to enjoy the thrill of a good buy and supporting a good cause. I have made purchases from Gear That Gives and it's amazing the range of things they have on the site. You can easily find a gift or two (or more) for your loved ones from this site. And best part is, I know I am helping others too. It's also convenient since it's online shopping - so no bags to carry or aching feet.

Infact, you can choose to help for a cause you believe in. So the next time you have an uncontrollable urge to shop, head to one of these online stores.

• The Hunger Site Store
  
• The Breast Cancer Site Store
• The Child Healthcare Site Store
• The Literacy Site Store
• The Rainforest Site Store
• The Animal Rescue Site Store

Infact, I am thinking of getting these Handmade Burmese Dolls as a birthday present.

These unique Burmese dolls, each expertly handmade by women from the Karen people. Former residents of Burma, the Karen now live in refugee camps on the Thailand-Burma border. After years of suffering at the hands of the Burmese government, the Karen were forced to flee their country and now live in exile in Thailand. Your purchase helps these women earn a living wage for themselves and their families.

For just US$22.95, you can give two handmade dolls to children living in refugee camps. Or, for just US$49.95, you can give six dolls! Children love the lifelike features and removable clothing of these soft dolls. And, they're just the right size for hugging!

Karen women will distribute the dolls among nursery schools in the refugee camps. You (or your gift recipient) will receive a certificate in the mail to commemorate that you sent comfort and love to refugee children.