LifeStyle

I shop; therefore, I help. That's the mantra when it comes to products that tread lightly and donate proceeds to charity. This holiday, consider giving these gifts that give back.

- Caroline Tiger

Clever creature
Devour the organic chocolate Vanishing Creatures Elephant ($48), then flip the recycled plastic and bamboo container over, and voilà: a candleholder (soy-based candle included) and a yield of zero-waste packaging. Available at vanishingcreatures.com.

Clean with meaning
As the Cleanup Soap ($8) disappears, so do land mines in Cambodia: 25 percent of revenues is donated to mine removal and survivor assistance. Available at cleanupsoap.com.

Lights on
For each cheerful, solar-powered Sunnan lamp ($20) that Ikea sells worldwide, one is donated to UNICEF in Pakistan, where many live without the option of electricity. Available at Ikea, 2206 S. Columbus Blvd.

Fairly traded
Gigi the Giant Panda and Desmond the Dolphin ($10 each) are handmade in Thailand. Use one as a keychain or a good-luck charm. Available at Mineralistic, 319 South St.

Brains and beauty
The translucent BPA-free Kor One Hydration Vessels ($29.95) raise money for water-related nonprofits - and their push-button caps make for easy, one-handed opening. Available at Eastern Mountain Sports, 525 W. Lancaster Ave., Haverford, and ems.com.

Boldly drawn
The Blush "Pilgrimage" Bowl ($25), made in collaboration with a coalition of women weavers in Rwanda, is inspired by baskets used to carry heartfelt messages and warm wishes. Available at Macy's, 1300 Market St., and macys.com.

Sweet smell of benevolence
The scent of the Paperwhite Candlepot ($19.50) becomes even more enchanting when you discover that $10 from each sale goes to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Available at Pottery Barn, 4230 Main St., Manayunk, and potterybarn.com.

Caroline Tiger is a Philadelphia writer. Visit her design blog, design-phan, at www.design-phan.squarespace.com.

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