The winter holiday season in Minnesota is a time of nearness, a time of connection. We draw closer to our families, to our tables, to our traditions and our hearths (symbolic or sparking). In this time of renewed connection, the Justice Office staff asks you to consider how your gift-giving might connect you to the global community. There are a myriad of organizations that offer not only beautiful objects, but also lovely ideas – organizations like Heifer International, where a flock of geese for a family In Southeast Asia costs $20, or the World Wildlife Federation, where you can “adopt” a panda for $50.

Other options for conscientious gift-giving include supporting the work of our ministries! If you are browsing our website, you are most likely familiar with the work that the Sister of St. Joseph do throughout the community. Our diverse ministries have wishlists of items that they could use in the coming year.

Consider donating a duffel bag in someone’s name to ease an ex-offender’s return to the community, or supporting the CSJs themselves by purchasing some lovely artwork.

FAIR TRADE

Buying fair trade means a fair price for buyer and seller, fair working conditions, and environmental sustainability. There are many ways to buy fair trade. These organizations provide many enticing gift items: chocolate, coffee, jewelry, handicrafts and more!
Transfair USA
Catholic Relief Services Fair Trade
SERRV
Give Us Wings

GREEN GIFT-GIVING

A great resource for finding green and local products and businesses is EcoMetro. Their website has a directory that’s sure to have something for everyone; from the fasionista to the foodie.

Other good resources: Made in Minnesota and Green America!

Hopefully our suggestions have given you some ideas for how to expand your community this holiday season!

In the words of Edward Everett Hale:

“I am only one

But still I am one.

I cannot do everything,

But still I can do something.

And because I cannot do everything,

I will not refuse to do

The something that I can do.”