What is Alternative Gift Giving?

It's taking money we usually spend on gifts with little meaning, and creating gifts of charity that give in multiple ways, to the receiver, the giver, and people who truly need. 

Jacob’s Well has wonderful opportunities, both locally and globally, for alternative giving that will make a huge difference in other people’s lives. 

1)      Sabathani Community Center – For every dollar donated, Sabathani can provide $9 worth of food for those in need!  $4 can feed a Twin Cities family of 4 for one day. This local organization based in S. Mpls offers programs and services that focus on life skills, self-reliance, job readiness, basic needs, education and school success.  Make a donation online: http://www.sabathani.org/SCC_how_to_donate.htm or place your donation in the offering basket marked "Food Shelf" and make note of it on your information card at church. (Note: Through Dec 12 Thrivent will add $1 to every $3 donated to Sabathani!)

2)      Kiva – This is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world.  Once you make a loan, you are helping a real person make great strides towards economic independence and improve life for themselves, their family, and their community. Throughout the course of the loan (usually 6-12 months), you can receive email journal updates and track repayments. Then, when you get your loan money back, you can re-lend to someone else in need. Meet the founders of KIVA and hear their story here! (Don't miss the YouTube video near the bottom!)

Jacob’s Well has started a lending team and you can contribute to a loan ($25 minimum) here: http://www.kiva.org/team/jacobs_well

Gift note cards are available at the information table during church.  Please feel free to take some for those who are receiving alternative gifts from you.