Christmas gift ideas: Why not give a goat?

Maria the goat

If you’re looking for a unique present to give this Christmas, charitable giving might be the way to go.

One popular idea, courtesy of World Vision Canada: the gift of a goat.

“Canadians love the thought of giving a goat,” World Vision's Brianna Locke told CTV News, “We actually work with farmers in developing countries.”

World Vision Canada is just one organization with a gift catalogue this holiday season. It offers everything from a goat for $100 to 5 fruit trees for $30, 3 soccer balls for $30 and school meals for $75. You can also stock a medical clinic for $100. Those gifts are distributed in more than 100 countries.

In 2015 more than 8,000 British Columbians donated more than $1.6 million to the organization. And charitable giving is becoming a popular alternative to traditional gift giving. An Ipsos Reid poll found 66 per cent of Canadians are likely to give a charitable gift this year. That’s up eight per cent from two years ago.

World Vision is not the only organization hoping for some generosity this holiday season.

There are many others. However, before you give you need to do some research and exercise caution.

“These days it isn’t just about helping those in need at home. Tragedies around the world generate a lot of sympathies, but as we’ve seen in the past they also attract a host of scammers who care little for the cause and only want your money,” says Evan Kelly, spokesperson for the Better Business Bureau of Mainland BC.

The Better Business Bureau says there are ways to lessen your chances of being scammed and has put out a list of things you can do to protect yourself.

“BBB simply wants to remind those who want to give to be aware of questionable solicitations, websites or crowdfunding campaigns that ultimately have little to do with helping people,” said Kelly.

The Better Business Bureau also suggests checking with the Canadian Revenue Agency if you’re donating to a new charity.