15 GIFT IDEAS FOR THE UNEMPLOYED OR LAID-OFF
In these challenging economic times, it may be difficult to choose a gift for those who’ve been struck by job loss. This is not the time to think about luxury items. It can be depressing to receive a new gee-whiz electronic gadget when you don’t know how you’re going to put food in the fridge or gas in the car. Practical gifts that don’t look or feel like charity can be most appreciated. Here are a few suggestions.
Gift cards
Gift cards allow people to make their own decisions, which helps maintain their dignity during difficult times. Wrap gift cards in a big box to create a festive holiday feeling.
1. Warehouse-store cards (BJ’s; Costco; Sam’s Club; etc.). These allow recipients to obtain items ranging from pharmaceuticals to food; books; office supplies; and luxury products. Include a membership with this gift if the recipient does not already have one to the club you choose.
2. Discount-store cards, to stores with a wide variety of items including food; clothing; and housewares (Target; Walmart; etc.), allow people a wide range of use to stretch their budget or enjoy a little splurge.
3. Sundry-store cards to corner stores like CVS and Walgreens provide a wide range of buying options.
4. Pet-store cards can relieve the guilt of caring for a pet when it can be hard to care for the family--and keep a family from surrendering its pet to a shelter. Pets help relieve stress for the whole family.
Memberships
Memberships to service organizations that offer discounts can provide a sense of security.
5. Auto clubs, such as AAA, can provide peace of mind in the event car-towing or a battery-charge is needed. These services are free to members. Often, membership discounts are available for other products and services too, like eyeglasses and insurance.
6. Food-of-the-month clubs can be found that deliver items ranging from meats (Omaha Steaks) to fruit (Harry & David) and other items (http://www.monthclubstore.com). You can specify the number of months and keep the pick-me-up of gifts coming on a regular basis.
7. Children’s day-care or play-care organizations offer free time for parents to concentrate on job searching. Check the reputation and references of any provider you consider.
Services
Some things must get done--and its good not to have to think about them.
8. Prepaid cell phones can help people stay connected and, perhaps, give up the cost of a land line.
9. Transportation tickets (bus; train; shuttle) can help city dwellers get around easily.
10. Prepaid grooming and cleaning services (haircuts; dry cleaning; laundry) are useful. Think about including a bunch of dollar bills for tip-giving.
11. Prepaid babysitting or day care for dependent adults are helpful. You can make up coupons for you to provide these services, too.
12. Prepaid utilities (gas; electric, cable TV) can relieve budgeting burdens.
Entertainment
Recreation is important for clearing the mind of worries--even if only for a little while.
13. Memberships to video stores and video delivery services.
14. Tickets to a show; concert; sporting event; or cultural event/venue.
15. A fully-supplied picnic basket with prepaid entrance fees to a park.
These gifts may not be fun for you to buy, but they’ll be used; appreciated; and remembered.
