The thought of Christmas may induce a gift buying frenzy, but it's frenzy short-lived when all those gifts are tossed into a pile of - "gee-thanks, just what I wanted for that empty spot on the mantle or empty hanger in my closet."

There's no doubt that ours is a society of luxury, but that's not a reason to feel guilty, just motivation to share.

A recently published MacLeans Magazine article by a Canadian economist suggested that Christmas gift buying is a giant waste of money.

Firstly, there's the concept that most Christmas presents are not at all appreciated, and others are last minute or given without much thought.

In fact, the only time someone gets every dollar value out of a gift, it is usually from a romantic partner, according to this article.

Those other things, the ones from Grandma, Aunty and your secret Santa at work, get re-gifted and never appreciated.

This Christmas there's no reason for unwanted gifts with so much need surrounding us.

Last month, Beaver Valley Outreach food bank saw its busiest month in six years and the cupboards came close to being bare. Monetary or food donations in the name of a friend or family member make a great gift for anyone. And you can be sure your dollar will be multiplied when a family at the end of its rope is blessed with a Christmas dinner. Perhaps that certain someone would be honoured if you donated the ingredients for their favourite meal to the food bank for another family to enjoy.

In Meaford, Golden Town Outreach just finished a warm clothes drive and didn't get many winter boots. There's a need.

Of course, the Outreach also collects food for its food bank. In fact, there's a police cruiser going to Bill's Valu Mart in Meaford this Saturday, December 12 and will be parked with its trunk open for shoppers to fill with food donations.

For an even more thoughtful gift, find some niche donation to make.

For example, there's a group in Thornbury and Meaford collecting funds for new Family Health Centres. Perhaps there's a medical professional in your family who would understand the importance of family doctors in town.

The Grey County Disaster Relief committee has received almost 70 applications from individuals, families and small businesses across Grey County who were victims of the August 20 tornado. Some farmers have seen their livelihoods swept away in seconds and need help to recover. In this case, funds are matched two dollars to one by the province. No economist can argue that a donation to this cause is a waste of money.

In Meaford, there's a Library in need of a new home. Perhaps there's a teacher or writer in your family that would appreciate a donation on their behalf to the Meaford Library new building fund.

For the art lover on the list, a donation to the Meaford Hall Arts and Culture Foundation would be a great return on investment.

Both the Craigleith Heritage Depot and the Meaford Museum would also welcome donations and any history buff or long-time resident would, no doubt, understand the great thing you've done by giving money in their name.

Make economically wise decisions this Christmas and give where the needs are greatest.