Although it's fun to go shopping for loved ones around the holidays (and to be on the receiving end of someone else's shopping efforts), please keep in mind that there are food pantries and shelters all over St. Louis that would be happy to accept donations this time of year.
While packing up for my big move out west, I started a collection of toiletries that were unopened and/or seemed like something the average woman would find necessary. In that bag included nail files, shampoo, body wash, a mini hair dryer and even a Turbie Twist!
I found Woman's Place online and called up there to make sure they were accepting donations - they were and were very grateful for the supplies. The woman who met me at the door even commented on the Turbie Twist and exclaimed "One of our ladies is going to LOVE getting this as a Christmas gift". That made me feel really good - totally worth the drive to Maplewood!
Again, it's fun to shop for people you know during Christmas. But there's people in our own community who would be grateful for any sort of donation you could provide this winter and beyond, whether it be food, clothing or hair accessories. Do your part this holiday season! read more