What to consider

Many clients have asked about other gifts, such as sweets, balloons, and toys. We wouldn’t recommend gifting sweets, as many children do not have access to adequate dental care. And regrettably, balloons pose a choking hazard for both children and the wildlife.
Toys that can be easily shared (such as football/soccer balls) are not a bad idea and will bring much joy to the children. However, if you plan to bring individual toys to give to children, be prepared to have a toy for every single child you meet. Once you give one child a toy, another seems to appear, followed by another, and another, and eventually the entire community. Unfortunately with toys, the largest kid always wins and not every child receives a gift. If you’re really keen on bringing toys, you could give them privately to an adult to distribute them when they feel appropriate – such as for a birthday or as a reward for doing well in school.
If you’re not sure whether your gift would be appropriate, please feel free to ask us. Also, many of our suppliers participate in Pack For A Purpose, and their lists are really helpful and full of ideas about what you could donate. Ultimately, it’s great to donate gifts to the communities, but it’s essential to think carefully about what you are giving.