Although it is only the beginning of the fall season, everyone is starting to save up money for holiday shopping. We are all scoping the catalogs, checking out the sales, and trying not to break the bank. Shopping is all fun and games until we take a closer look at how our products are produced and where profits of our purchases go. In a social justice course I took in high school, my peers and I took a closer look at household name brands that involve animal cruelty, unethical labor conditions, and a waste of resources. Unfortunately, we have all fallen victim to unethical shopping habits. Luckily, there are tons of brands that are totally ethical and also give back to the community whenever consumers make a purchase. Below is a list of 15 brands that everyone needs to look into as they plan their holiday shopping lists!
1. 4Point4
This company is dedicated to improving communities through sports. They specialize in performance wear, team uniforms, and sporting goods while donating 4.4 percent of every purchase to nonprofit organizations.
2. FEED
These products are made to engage consumers in the fight against world hunger. Each product is stamped with a number that signifies the amount of meals or micronutrient packets provided with its purchase. All products are produced under fair labor conditions.
3. Fetch Eyewear
Fetch Eyewear sells glasses and sunglasses, but they have also pledged to donate all profits to the Pixie Project to improve animal welfare through rescue, veterinary care and education. Also, customers can request their favorite pairs to try on at home to ensure they choose the right pair of glasses!
4. Frank Stationery
New Zealand couple, Jason and Jess, started this company up to support communities in need by donating notebooks to children in need in schools. For every book bought, a child in New Zealand receives one too. Their products include beautiful journals and diaries for customers to fill with thoughts, doodles, and aspirations.
5. Half United
Brother and sister pair, Christian and Carmin, started this company to alleviate hunger in America, Fiji, Cambodia, Liberia, Nepal, and Haiti. For every purchase, a child gets 7 meals. Be sure to check out their famous "Fighting Hunger" Bullet Necklaces!
6. Link of Hearts
Specializing in jewelry for males and females, as well as aromatherapy, Link of Hearts inspires and helps fight the stigma of mental illness. Every piece comes with an inspirational word or phrase. This company uses these words and phrases to instill positivity and light into everyone's lives.
7. LUSH
Known famously for their enticing bath bombs, LUSH specializes in body and skin care products. Products are 100% handmade and free of animal cruelty. One popular product is their Charity Pot lotion and all profits from this product goes towards their charity partners. Consumers can even do in-store demonstrations or receive free samples.
8. Krochet Kids
This company sells clothing and headwear handmade by women from Peru and Uganda. These products provide programs and employment for poverty-stricken communities. Each product is signed by the woman who made it. Customers can look at the online profiles of each woman to learn their unique stories.
9. Pura Vida
Most known for their water-proof, wax-coated bracelets, Pura Vida is inspired by the Costa Rican spirit. All products help provide jobs for artisans in Costa Rica and are 100% handmade. There is a store in La Jolla, California and their online store gives free shipping for anyone in the United States.
10. Thrive Causemetics
Once you buy from one of these companies (or all of them), you can finally say this:
