28 feel-good holiday gifts that give back

Soap is always a go-to stocking stuffer. And when you pick the right one, it’s the perfect intersection of practical and special. The rich and nourishing soaps from clean beauty brand Fable Rune are made with sustainably produced goat’s milk to leave skin soft and moisturized and scented with gorgeous essential oils like grapefruit, rose, and lavender, it makes even the earliest wake up showers a little more inviting.

How they give back: For every bar of soap purchased, a bar or other product is donated to a women’s shelter, crisis center, or environmental cause across the country.

Literally no one has ever been sad to find a box of cheese on their doorstep. And here’s the thing–the well-curated charcuterie kits from Platterful are so much more than that. In addition to a top-notch selection of cheeses, they also include cured meats and crackers, spreadable things like jams or honey and a selection of goodies like candied nuts, olives or chocolate to create a show-stopping charcuterie board. And thanks to a video tutorial and instruction card, they can assemble it like a pro. (Unless you want to go the extra mile and do it for them before delivering it yourself!)

How they give back: For every box purchased, Platterful donates 10 meals to kids in need across the U.S. through No Kid Hungry.

If their shoulders aren’t in knots, are they even alive? Ideal for working out tension in the shoulders, legs and upper back, the foam ball rollers from Oceanfoam are almost addicting. Their clementine size and irregular surface provides targeted relief to those tender spots even as they sit at their desk trying their best to sit up straight and not make it worse. (It’s me, hi.)

How they give back: Each Oceanfoam product is made using algae, which when harvested, helps clean water and restore aquatic ecosystems as well as capture CO2 emissions. To date, their production has cleaned over 859,085 gallons of water and over 527.61 tons of CO2.

Founded by a foster mom, giving back is part of the fabric of For the Cubs. From cozy muslin blankets to beautifully designed toys, their curated selection of children’s essentials bring together aesthetics, functionality and philanthropy. We’re particularly fond of the sweet In Place Puzzle with its muted colors and durable construction.

How they give back:  In partnership with One Simple Wish, their profits help fund wishes for foster children in need.

There are so many things to love about cuddle + kind, it’s hard to choose just one. These handmade, heirloom quality dolls are just about as cute as they can be; from bespectacled bunnies to dapper doggies, our little ones couldn’t get enough of these cuddly companions. (And frankly, neither could we.) But best of all, every purchase provides meals for a child in need. One doll = 10 meals, and to date cuddle + kind has given over 28 million meals to children in need. Math may not be our strong suit, but those are some numbers we can definitely get behind.

Founded by a mom of three in her tiny Bend, Oregon kitchen, Broken Top Candle Co. makes products that make any space feel elevated. From the clean burning soy candles to the bougie car fresheners that put those questionable tree ones to shame, everything is oh-so-giftable! If you need any help (you don’t but we’ll give it anyway), we’re smitten with the Cardamom Vanilla Linen Spray which smells like sleeping in the coziest holiday den of relaxation.

How they give back: Giving back is at the heart of Broken Top Candle Co.’s mission. Throughout the year they donate to a variety of local and national non-profits like 1 Tree Planted, Humane Society, and the Children’s Foundation.

The next best thing to slipping your foot into a cloud! Made from cowhide suede and rabbit fur, these moccasin style slippers from Manitobah are as well-made as they are cozy. The soft construction and stellar workmanship means they’ll mold to your feet as you break them in and last for years to come.

How they give back: With Indigenous communities at the heart of everything they do, Manitobah has been making an impact for over 25 years. Their Indigenous Market is filled with beautiful products that help keep traditions alive while also providing Indigenous artists with 100% of profits.

The best diaper bags are the ones that don’t scream “I’m a diaper bag!” Case in point?The Momkindess Carry All Tote Trio. Not only does it hold everything she needs on her travels with a brilliant 3-in-1 design that consists of a tote, organizer and removable diaper clutch (for when you just need the essentials!), it’s also made from stylish and easy-to-clean glazed canvas—so she won’t have to stress about the inevitable spills. And if you want to make the gift even more unique, check out their gorgeous woven straps that allow it to be carried as a shoulder bag or backpack.

How they give back: A portion of proceeds from every purchase is donated to Every Mother Counts to help bring safe, respectful maternity care to mothers everywhere.

Ok, so maybe you can’t gift them an all-expenses paid trip to Bali, but you can gift them a place to dream about it. The beautifully hand-crafted hammocks from Yellow Leaf Hammocks are hands-down the most comfortable ever and since they’re made from weather safe materials, they always will be.

How they give back: By creating sustainable job opportunities for artisans in rural Thailand, Yellow Leaf Hammocks helps to alleviate poverty and improve livelihoods. By focusing on livelihoods and providing employment opportunities, Yellow Leaf Hammocks aims to empower mothers, lift families from poverty, and drive positive community transformation, recognizing that women’s economic empowerment has a significant impact on their families and communities.

Perfect their pout with the decadent (and effective!) two-step kit from Farmhouse Fresh. Start with the shea butter and merlot infused Blackberry Wine Sugar Lip Polish to buff away those rough patches, then finish with a swipe of nourishing Blackberry Crush Hydrating Lip Balm to give lips an infusion of moisture that soothes even the driest skin.

How they give back: Farmhouse Fresh isn’t your typical skin care company. For starters, their Texas headquarters is also home to their non-profit farm sanctuary where they provide specialized care for special needs animals. Each and every purchase helps fund surgeries for injured animals, finds homes for pets who would otherwise be euthanized, and provides support to other animal-focused charities they partner with around the country. Best of all, your giftee can track their gift’s impact on their website and learn exactly how they’ve helped!

Between their give back mission, super cool styles and all around top-notch quality, STATE totally nails the bag game–and their line of kids’ fanny packs is no exception. With enough space for the essentials and two ways to carry, you might even steal this one for yourself sometimes.

How they give back: Supporting American kids in need is at the core of everything STATE does. Throughout the year they donate fully-packed backpacks to bag drop rallies, and fund initiatives that help shed light on social injustices across the country.

Anything you purchase from Tentree is a win all around. Their leggings are some of the best around (seriously, I’ve tested a bazillion) and the quality is outshined only by their commitment to sustainability. Each piece is ethically made from recycled and eco-friendly fabrics and with something for every member of the family, it’s a one stop shop this holiday season.

How they give back: Sustainability is at the root of everything for Tentree. As the name suggests, they plant ten trees for every purchase and to date, have planted an impressive 65+ million trees, with a goal to plant 1 billion trees by 2030. Additionally, each and every item they produce is done so in an ethical factory with fair, safe working conditions.

The fun recycled and organic cotton socks from Hippy Feet make the perfect stocking stuffer. (A little on the nose, but what can we say?) They’ve got a ton of great patterns including some limited edition patterns created by amazing artists like Atosha and these fabulous “Sleeping Buddies” crews by Marisol Muro

How they give back: 50% of profits are donated to non-profit organizations that are serving homeless youth. And because the planet matters too, Hippy Feet uses sustainable materials whenever possible and is partnered with EcoCart to offset emissions incurred with every order.

Welly bottles are perfect for the reluctant hydrator in your life. For one thing, they’re stylish enough to convince anyone to carry it around.  But more importantly, they come with a removable infuser for brewing tea or infusing water with fruit. Consider it the gift of good habits.

How they give back: Over 785 million people live in areas that struggle to provide clean water. In support, Welly donates 1% of all sales to charity, bringing wells and other long-lasting clean water solutions to communities worldwide. Additionally, they are currently donating 10% of sales of Rose bottles to METAvivor to fund metastatic breast cancer research.

I know, I know. Gifting kids socks is a one way ticket to Snoozeville–but what do babies know? They play with recycling. Also, it’s a scientific fact that Bombas socks are the best socks on the planet for tiny feet. They actually stay on! They’re also super warm and last forever.

How they give back: Bombas one-to-one program gives a pair to someone in need for every pair sold. They work with shelters, nonprofits, and organizations dedicated to helping homeless, in-need, and at-risk communities to help make meaningful donations across the US.

Filed under “the gift they never knew they needed,” Nomadix towels are a slam dunk for nearly everyone on your list. They’re ideal for trips to the beach since they’re sand-resistant and quick-drying (no more whining over wet, clammy towels!) and their lightweight packability means you can toss them in your bag and be ready for anything. Even better? They’re made from recycled plastic bottles!

How they give back: Nomadix is a member of 1% for the Planet, which commits them to donating 1% of their sales—not just profits—to environmental causes. Is there a particular park they’re partial to? Opt for one of their towels inspired by some of the greatest hits.

The durable, made-to-last leather goods from Parker Clay seem to get better with age. (Just like you, right? But seriously, I’ve had one of their travel pouches for years now and despite carelessly dragging it all over creation it still looks absolutely gorgeous.) All their styles are timeless and versatile but our current fave is the Sodo Belt Bag which keeps your hands free when chasing toddlers, but looks chic crossbody or on your waist when you’re not. (And that contrast zipper?! Be still my heart.)

How they give back: In addition to sustainably sourcing their leather from local Ethiopian providers, Parker Clay’s Ethiopian factories employ at-risk women and provide them a safe work environment and livable wage. Through their employment, they’re also given opportunities to learn and develop new skills and advance their careers.

Nothing can cozy up a space like a good candle. And when it comes to Caylan Wax Co., they’re all good. So instead of choosing just one, grab The Dignity Series Gift Collection instead. It includes six of their best sellers, each a rich luxurious scent that’s poured into a gorgeous matte glass vessel and made from soy wax in Texas. When you’ve used up the candle, they make perfect bathroom jars!

How they give back: On a mission to “bring light into a dark world,” Caylan Wax Co. donates 5% of revenue to trusted and vetted non-profits that bring hope and healing to survivors of trafficking.

I’m a firm believe that Santa does not deal in live animals (so no puppies for Christmas at my house) but gifts that help save them? All for it. The simple beaded bracelets from Fahlo come with a real animal to track. (No, you don’t get a turtle on your doorstep–sorry.) Instead, each purchase comes with a photo card that tells you the “adopted” animal’s name, size and where they came from and exclusive access to their tracking map so you can follow their adventures in real time.

How they give back: The brand works in partnership with a variety of well known organizations (Save the Elephants, The Sea Turtle Conservancy, etc.) that raise awareness and provide protection for threatened and endangered species. A portion of all proceeds is donated to their efforts.

Another great give back gift idea for animal lovers! Sea Turtle Inc. in South Padre Island, Texas is at the epicenter of saving the world’s most endangered sea turtle, the Kemp’s Ridley. But you and your children can make a difference, too! Through Sea Turtle Inc., you can adopt a hatchling, a patient or resident that’s currently at their facility or an entire nest. Each adoption comes with an adoption packet which includes a variety of goodies as well as an adoption certificate. All funds go to medical supplies, exams, food, and care for the thousands of turtles they conserve. Prices start at $30.

Why choose between a tote and a backpack when you can have both? This lightweight carry-all from Aruna is equipped with both kinds of straps so you can switch it up as needed. It’s lightweight and washable with ample space for a laptop, gym clothes or weekend getaway essentials. Oh, and turns out it makes a great diaper bag, too!

How they give back: Aruna Project frees, employs, and empowers women who have been victims of human trafficking. The creations are responsible for 201,131 days of freedom and counting, producing lifelong independence and safety for these skilled artisans who earn a living wage.

Taylor Swift may have made friendship bracelets a cultural phenomenon, but we’ve loved the empowering designs from Little Words Project for ages. Launched by Adriana Carrig in 2013, their “just be nice” ethos is super refreshing in a world where many folks could use such a reminder.

How they give back: This particular piece donates 25% of net proceeds to Baby2Baby, providing diapers, clothing and basic necessities to children in need. Peruse the full Big Impact collection to find other organizations that may be near and dear including The March of Dimes, One Tree Planted, Campus Pride and more.

Got a sweet tooth on your list? The decadent chocolate from women-owned Seattle Chocolate is a no-brainer. This holiday gift box is filled with a variety of their dreamy seasonal truffles like Hazelnut Buttercrisp and Champagne all packed up in a cozy scene that’s too pretty to wrap!

How they give back: Seattle Chocolate donates 10% of net profits to Girls, Inc., inspiring girls everywhere to be their boldest brightest selves.

If you’re serious about your coffee (who’s not?) you know that freshness makes all the difference. The sleek stainless steel container from Miir features an accordion-style seal that compresses to push out oxygen and lock in flavor.

How they give back: Every MiiR product sold helps fund giving projects (which at the time of writing exceeded $4.4 million dollars) which you can track on their site with your own personal code. Get updates on your impact and additional volunteer opportunities for the project your dollars have helped!

The gorgeous and sustainable cork yoga mats from Scoria World provide a thick, cushy surface for yoga, meditation, and/or taking a quiet moment to ponder this week’s existential crisis. They provide excellent traction when you work up a sweat and even offer some super adorable kid versions for the mini yogis who want in on the good vibes.

How they give back: Each mat purchased helps support life-skills and healthy living education for Indigenous youth in Canada through a partnership with Right To Play.

Female-founded and female run, Pottery With a Purpose offers a thoughtfully curated line of eco-conscious DIY clay sculpting kits that make it easy for anyone to access the creative and calming benefits of “clay time.” With everything you need to craft and paint simple a pinch pot, planter or sculpture (no kiln necessary), it’s the perfect gift for someone who needs a quiet and reflective outlet.

How they give back: Each quarter Pottery With a Purpose donates a percentage of all proceeds to a top nationwide initiative or non-profit organization working to advance the world of mental health.

Akola is a female-founded, globally-inspired jewelry brand, offering beautiful designs handcrafted by women in Uganda using locally-sourced sustainable materials. And while it’s hard to pick a favorite, rest assured the bracelets look just as stunning on their own as they do in a stack.

How they give back: Akola directly employs some of the most at-risk women in the entire world, previously lacking a dependable source of income with no support system. Akola works with each woman to unlock her skills and spark her individual confidence, capital, community, and power. Akola’s nonproft partner, Akola Academy, helps take this impact even further. After a woman is employed through Akola, she is given access to the Academy’s holistic curriculum of programs including leadership and financial literacy training. These programs give her skills that are proven to effectively drive long-term economic empowerment and poverty alleviation for her as an individual, her dependents, and community.

The warm, grippy, and oh-so-adorbs socks from LittleYogaSocks are slim enough to wear with shoes, but keep them from wiping out when they’re just hanging around the house.

How they give back: For every pair sold, another is donated to Loved Twice, an organization that provides baby clothing to newborns in need for their first year of life.