By Doshka Harvey

African Nativity, created by Tanzanian artists, made of mahogany and ebony, $50

The gift that gives back is one of the best gifts ever.  One way to give with an open heart to children in need is via UNICEF.  According to UNICEF 22,000 children die daily from preventable causes.  UNICEF, which currently aids children in over 150 countries, believes that number should be zero.  As citizens of the world we can commit an angelic act with UNICEF via the power of our donation or the purchase of UNICEF cards and gifts.

Perusing their 2010 Fall Collection Catalog as well as their 2010 Inspired Gifts Holiday Catalog, one will be impressed to find a number of items to serve as presents to others, while also being able to opt for inspired gifts which go directly to the children who need it.

Haitian Steel Drum Wall Art, created by Haiti's craftsmen, made of recycled steel drums, $50

Your purchase of UNICEF cards and gifts means that 15 percent of the sale will go to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF and 90 percent of that will be given to UNICEF.

Quilted Ceramic Tea Light Holders (set of 3), $18

In addition, for the holidays, UNICEF has partnered with FEED Guatemala Bags and IKEA.  According to UNICEF "for every FEED 1 Guatemala pouch and FEED 3 Guatemala bag sold at Lord & Taylor stores in the U.S. and online, FEED will donate $3.50 or $10.50, respectively, to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF to help support UNICEF's nutrition programs in Guatemala."  For more information please visit:  www.lordandtaylor.com/feed

And, "for each soft toy purchased in IKEA stores around the world between November 1 and December 24, IKEA will make a donation of 1 euro (approx. $1.39), to be split between the U.S. Fund for UNICEF and Save the Children.  The funding for UNICEF this year will support the innovative 'Schools for Africa' campaign and other education programs in Asia as well as Central and Eastern Europe."  For more information please visit:  www.IKEA-usa.com

Other partner companies for 2010 include:  Gucci, American Airlines, H&M, and Delta Airlines.

Inspired Gift, School-in-a-Box Kit, provides temporary school for up to 40 children in an emergency, $256.40

Help give the gift of nutrition, immunizations, water, education, and of Life.  Help save a child in need.

For additional information on UNICEF, UNICEF holiday gifts and inspired gifts visit:

www.unicefusa.org

www.inspiredgifts.org

www.unicefusa.org/shop

Images courtesy of UNICEF