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I know the Salvation Army has big appeals at this time of year, but I don't give money to them because of their specifically anti-gay stance (towards their staff, not towards those they help, so I do donate food in their Christmas food collection bins). There will be other local charities in everyone's area if they want to give without supporting anti-gay policies. A good alternative, for those inclined, might be something like Lifeline or the equivalent in your area - Christmas is a difficult time for a lot of people, including people with mental illness such as depression.
Personally, I donate year-round to UNICEF, The Smith Family's school support program, Learning for Life, and The Fistula Foundation. All of these organisations do a lot of important work with relatively little money. I have been a little wary of the Red Cross, considering its obvious religious background, but their special funds for particular crises are well-vetted and spending is reported.
Kiva.org is a fascinating micro-loan service, but not really a donation.
Personally, I donate year-round to UNICEF, The Smith Family's school support program, Learning for Life, and The Fistula Foundation. All of these organisations do a lot of important work with relatively little money. I have been a little wary of the Red Cross, considering its obvious religious background, but their special funds for particular crises are well-vetted and spending is reported.
Kiva.org is a fascinating micro-loan service, but not really a donation.