Give a Gift That Makes a Difference This Holiday Season

MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Dec. 9, 2015) - The Farha Foundation, Quebec's leading HIV/AIDS fundraising organization, recommends giving a gift that makes a difference and is sharing five reasons that people should consider an alterative approach to holiday gifting this season.

On average Canadians are expected to spend over $1,500 each during the holidays, according to a recent survey by BMO. While gifts and festive activities bring joy both to those who give and those who receive, many people struggle to fulfill their daily needs; from having a warm place to sleep, enough food to eat and in particular for those with HIV/AIDS, the proper care and treatment. Here are five reasons to consider giving a charitable gift this year:

1. It's a great hostess gift

Showing up at someone's house during the holidays without a gift is a faux pas but it can often be hard to know what to bring. Making a tax-deductible donation in their name is a great alternative that helps support your community and shows that you are thinking about them too.

2. It's tax-deducible and can last all year

While giving is never about the return, donations to registered Canadian organizations can be eligible for tax receipts. Donations can also be made as a one-time gift or on an ongoing basis meaning you can make a difference all year round. Contact the organization to find out more information about how donations can be made in your name or in the name of someone on your list this year.

3. It's a teachable moment

One of the greatest things that kids can learn is generosity, whether it is sharing a toy or helping bring someone else joy. Make helping others engaging. Having them make the donation in person can help connect them with the cause and putting it in terms they can understand will encourage them continue making a difference as they grow.

4. It's a new holiday tradition

Holidays are filled with old family traditions from ice-skating and big family dinners to eggnog and kisses under the mistletoe. Why not add a new tradition and select an organization to be part of your home for the holidays. Family members can contribute to the seasonal gift fund and the donation can be submitted, even wrapped-up in a bow, at the end of the year.

5. It's making a difference in the lives of those who need it most

If for no other reason than this, giving a donation makes a difference in the lives of those who really need it. When making a donation to the Farha Foundation, you help to support over 20,000 Quebecers affected by HIV/AIDS. This can mean everything from helping to provide housing and direct care services to medication and food and hygiene products, essential especially in the winter month.

To learn more making donations part of your holiday gifts, visit http://farha.qc.ca/donate. Follow the Farha Foundation so that one-day we can live in a world free from HIV/AIDS.

About the FARHA FOUNDATION

The Farha Foundation is Quebec's leading fundraising organization committed to helping men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS. The events organized by the Farha Foundation also serve to raise public awareness of the AIDS pandemic.

Since 1992, the Farha Foundation has distributed close to $9.5 million to 76 organizations throughout Quebec that provide services to HIV/AIDS victims (housing, medication, food, palliative care, homecare, etc.), as well as HIV/AIDS prevention and education programs. An advisory committee determines which organizations the Foundation supports and ensures that the funds are put to the best possible use. To find out more about the Farha Foundation, please visit farha.qc.ca.