Buying where it helps...

I'm aware that I do quite a lot of my shopping on the Internet for a variety of reasons. This next little group of ideas from my scribbled notes that I've been trying to implement look at how I've been using my purchasing power!

Month 11 - Bite 18

First of all I needed to move on some more of my clearing out so this first isn't so much shopping as going into a shop!

I've been into town with my bags of rather nice bits and pieces that need new homes. I deposited them in one of our many charity shops around here ready for others to pick up and use for their Christmas lists.

Month 11 - Bite 19

While I was there I took a good look round. I can see that I've only been doing half the job. It's no good just restocking the shelves there with my decluttering, however good the items are. I need to be shopping there too and I've already bought some yarn odds and ends (yes, I know I need more yarn like a hole in the head) ready for the dolls' clothes I've been asked for.

Month 11 - Bite 20

I've also noticed some flyers for local artists and makers so I'm looking out for exhibitions events so that I can support buying direct from the originators, especially where they are start-ups that need to get off the ground. There's some in our indoor market as well as around the galleries hereabouts. 

One of our local galleries/coffee shops also donates a percentage back to community art projects too so a double whammy from them (and some really nice Christmas cards too.

Month 11 - Bite 21

I'm also checking the local press and social media pages for other craft and art fairs many of which are being held in aid of schools and charities. Good place to invest some time - even if there's not anything directly on my wish list I can always support the tea and cakes!

Month 11 - Bite 22

The last place for this section is back to online. Not a national organisation this time, but the local neighbourhood pages where people around here list things they are passing on and where I can also put some free and cheap bits and pieces to help spread the cost of Christmas for others - some of my handmade decorations, for example, can be donated using this route.

 

Points mean Prizes

I forget the TV show with that as a slogan - seems to fit with the last few bites and one or two that follow here!

Month 11 - Bite 15

I've found that I've got some loyalty points for small amounts that need using up - I've discovered I can donate these too as they won't really buy anything I want .. that's next on the list.

Month 11 - Bite 16

I've also got cards or accounts that I buy things physically of online that will donate automatically as a reward for buying with them as long as I nominate a charity. No cost to me and a benefit to a good cause - win-win I'd say.

Month 11 - Bite 16

I did download a couple of apps that are supposed to reward you when reaching a certain number of steps. Most of those I've tried don't seem to provide any vouchers or rewards that I want or can accrue enough points to get - even if I do the whole South West Coast Path in the next few days! Again these provide the option of donating the points to charity so before I delete the apps that's what I'll do..

Month 11 - Bite 17

and finally (for this frantic catch-up) 

Some coffee shops also make it easy for you to 'buy' a coffee to be left for someone who needs it. You just donate the amount at the pay desk or from your app and they gift it to the ext person they identify as being in need of a hot drink!

Phew!

I'll get back with the next round up soon - just got some 'paid for' writing to catch up with - watch this space...