Frequently Asked Questions
That sounds like a great idea, but won't my child be disappointed not getting presents?
No parent wants to disappoint their child on their special day! Some parents who have already participated have suggested the following:
You only ask a FEW guests or relatives to do this e.g.: if your child usually gets fifteen presents or more, you might ask about four guests or relatives to 'Pass the Present'.
- You could start to develop a sense of empowerment in your child, explaining how their small sacrifice can make a big difference to a child just like him or her in the Developing World. Because of their generosity, this child will now have food and water, will be able to go to school and have books to read.
- You can involve your child as much as possible: let your child choose who they will ask to 'Pass the Present', then they can hand out the Invite Letters themselves.
Parents have commented that the best part of participating in 'Pass the Present' has been the boost to the child's self-esteem through the parents' encouragement of their generosity. This is also affirmed when the child receives the 'Certificate of Thanks' in their 'Puzzle Pack'.
Won't those guests be embarrassed turning up with only a birthday card and no present?
Again, participating parents have suggested:
- You might like to select guests whom you feel will have the same views as you on 'Pass the Present'.
- You could emphasize to guests that the child will receive the 'Puzzle Pack' as a result of the donations made on their behalf.
- When your child receives the Puzzle Pack it will contain thank you cards that they can pass on to the guest who 'Passed the Present'. This way they will be reassured that Oxfam Ireland has received their donation and your child has received the Puzzle Pack.
How long will it take for me to receive the invite letters and donation forms?
Please allow 3-4 days from the time you contact Oxfam to receive all you need.
Where does the money from 'Pass the Present' go?
All the funds raised through 'Pass the Present' go towards our long-term work with children and families in Africa. Find out more 
Questions, Comments and Suggestions:
If you have any questions, comments or suggestions about Pass the Present, we'd love to hear from you. You can send them by email to passthepresent [at] oxfamireland.org or lo-call us on 1850 30 40 55 (ROI) or 0800 0 30 40 55 (NI).
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