Give the gift that keeps on giving. Donate money to provide a needy family with anything from a cow to a flock of chicks. Make the donation in someone else's name and allow them to feel the satisfaction of receiving a meaningful gift.
Celebrity fans of Heifer International include Susan Sarandon, Mary Steenburgen & Ted Danson, and Brad Whitford & Jane Kaczmarek. (via Buy a Cow, or Some Jewelry)

A great gift idea! Donate a cow, sheep, pig or other gift animal to a needy family who can then use your gift to become more self-reliant. I'm making donations on behalf of all the people on my Christmas list this year (because really, who among them actually needs more stuff?). If you place your order early enough, Heifer will send you a special greeting card that you can pass onto your recipient friend or family member to let them know about your gift donation.