Sometimes, Giving Is as Easy as Shopping

Some ways to give during the holidays are also fun. How about shopping for a good cause? Or going to tea? Or adding a Santa to your party?

Shopping

The Country Friends shops in Rancho Santa Fe carry quality china, silver and furniture. They attract antique dealers from all over the state to peruse the crystal, collectibles and objects d’art. The merchandise is donated by members of the Country Friends, received from estates or there on consignment.

The operation is completely volunteer-run, and profits from the two side-by-side shops are distributed to 82 help agencies. Last year the Country Friends contributed nearly $260,000 to assist the elderly and Alzheimer patients, abused women and children, minorities and migrant workers, the handicapped, the seriously ill and others.

Since its inception in 1954, Country Friends has given more than $3 million to human-care agencies in the country.

The shops are open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are at El Tordo and Avenida de Acacias in the village of Rancho Santa Fe. Proceeds go to various charities.

Christmas Tea

The Las Duenas Auxiliary of the Children’s Home Society each year invites the public to a traditional Christmas tea at a private home in Rancho Santa Fe. The home is festively decorated both by the owners and auxiliary members, and customary holiday goodies are served. The profits go to the Children’s Home Society, the oldest and largest private adoption organization in the United States.

This year’s tea will be held Dec. 6 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the home of Dr. & Mrs. John Feighner. Tickets are $45. For more information and reservations, call 756-3164.

Rent-a-Santa

The Escondido Youth Encounter sponsors a Rent-a-Santa program. A volunteer in a costume will play Santa Claus, bringing along an elf for credibility. Cost is $45 per half-hour. Proceeds support programs for abused women and children. Contact Diane Lyons, 480-1203.