Yesterday, while having my morning coffee, I heard on the news that Americans spent $20 billion on Christmas this past weekend (post Thanksgiving). I wrote it down, and it looked like this…
$20,000,000,000.00
That is a lot of zeros!
The economy is collapsing, therefore people are traveling less, which in turn is making gas prices cheaper. YET, we are spending $20 billion on Christmas (before the real shopping even begins)? While the retail market was preparing for a decline in sales due to the economic strain of our country this year, it turns out that holiday retail sales are acutally up by 3% thus far… or approximately $6 million.
Americans have suddenly found an additional $6 million dollars to spend on Christmas?
According to statistics, last year, $450 billion was spent on Christmas in the United States. $11.4 billion would bring a sustainable clean drinking water source to every person on the planet (thanks Alicia). See what your money can do for bringing clean water to people all over the world by clicking here.
Human trafficking is a $9 billion dollar a year industry. Donating funds to trafficking initiatives would enable supporters and volunteers to educate, house, and feed thousands of victims yearly.
The cost of feeding all of the homeless in America, three meals a day, is a mere $24 million dollars. 
What useless, thoughtless gift are you planning on buying this year? Where can that money be of more use?
I personally always feel guilty when I buy myself something nice that I don’t need knowing there are so many people out there who need the money. It’s a bit of a conundrum. I own way less than most people, and sometimes I want a leather jacket or something cool (not that I am by any means cool). I also shop exclusively used, and the money from the thrift stores goes to help various causes in my community. Still, your post took me aback. I already think twice about what I buy, maybe now I will think thrice. And add that being Jewish has its advantages as I don’t need to buy my family holiday gifts.