Giving a virtual gift such as a goat, a camel or a chicken on someone else's behalf has proved a real hit for those who want to give a meaningful gift. Now you can give a school place, or even a whole classroom, through the Save the Children Wish List.

Charity Christmas gifts from charities such as Oxfam, World Vision and Christian Aid are proving to be a great solution for yuletide shoppers, looking for something meaningful to give their friends or family.

Camels have emerged as serious contenders against the traditional chickens and goats when it comes to charity Christmas presents and gifts.

A pioneering charity has launched a new initiative in the face of the credit crunch, to take loans from people who need a decent return on their income, and invest their money to help those in the developing world.