• It's easy to get caught up in the thrill of the hunt for that perfect--and expensive--Christmas gift for each member of your family. The result? A mixed message to children about the true meaning of Christmas. This Christmas, why not adopt an impoverished family and shower that family with gifts? Watch each member of your family enjoy the hunt for just the right gifts for your adopted family.
  
  

Bill Payments

• Many families without money to pay household bills face cold and darkness during the holidays. The Salvation Army lists utility payments as one of the most popular gifts given through its "Adopt-a-Family" program. Contact your charity to find out what type of heat source your family uses and supply wood or oil, too, if necessary. Help a family avoid eviction during the holidays with one or even two months' rent. The financial break could be just what a family needs to get back on its feet and begin to prosper.
  
  

Food

• Many family memories are shared around the dinner table--let your adopted family share memories around one, too. Supply meals for several days as well as non-perishable canned goods for the pantry. Treat them to cartons of fresh apples and oranges and give each member a stash of Christmas sweets, too.
  
  

Pest Control Service

• Many impoverished families live in run-down residential areas that are prone to rats, cockroaches and other pests. Treat your adopted family's home as your own and pay for at least one year of monthly pest control service.
  
  

Books

• Transport your adopted family to happier worlds and adventures with classic juvenile and adult books. The delight they will receive from these is worth far more than paper, ink and other book materials.
  
  

Toys

• Ask your children which toy they would keep if they could keep only one. Then go out and buy those toys for the children in your adopted family. Some other ideas include classic favorites such as dolls and doll houses, model cars and board games. Learning toys are a fantastic idea for underprivileged children and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Try to get at least two nice gifts for each child of the family.
  
  

Clothing

• Help boost the confidence of each member in your adopted family with new clothes. Your charity should have the size measurements you need to get the best fit. Buy plenty of socks, gloves, hats and mittens and invest in good shoes that will last. If it's cold where you live, buy snowshoes or boots for the entire family.