So, you’re an OFW and want to send something back home to your family? That’s amazing! Figuring out the best things to send can be tricky, from budgeting to actually choosing what your loved ones need and want the most. This guide breaks down exactly what to consider, giving you practical ideas on how to make your family happy without breaking the bank. Let’s get started!
Understanding Your Family’s Needs and Wants
Before you even think about browsing those online stores or heading to the mall, the very first step is to really understand what your family needs and what they want. Seems simple, right? But it’s deeper than just asking, “Ano gusto niyo?” (What do you want?). To truly nail it, you need to think about their everyday lives and their long-term goals.
Distinguishing Needs from Wants
Needs are things essential for survival and well-being. Think food, shelter, medicine, education (school supplies, uniforms), and basic clothing. Wants are the extras that make life more enjoyable but aren’t absolutely necessary – a new gadget, that branded bag, a fancy vacation. It’s often helpful to create a list together. Sit down (virtually or during a call) and brainstorm. Ask specific questions: “Is your school uniform still okay, or do you need a new one?” Instead of just saying, “Do you need anything?”, go for specifics “is your phone still working ok or would you like something better?”
Having an open and honest conversation about needs versus wants will help you prioritize how you spend your hard-earned money. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of sending gifts, but remember that satisfying essential needs comes first.
How to Ask the Right Questions
Communication is key. Don’t just rely on asking general questions. Instead, try these conversation starters:
“What’s been making your life difficult lately? Is there anything I can help with from here?” This helps uncover hidden needs they might not immediately think of.
“What are you working on towards right now?” This might reveal a need for specific tools or resources related to their hobbies or studies.
“What’s one thing that would make your daily life easier?” This helps prioritize wants that offer practical benefits.
“What kind of food are you craving?” This can be more specific than a general “what do you want?” and result in more helpful suggestions.
Considering Their Lifestyle
Think about your family’s lifestyle. Do they live in the city or the province? This will affect their needs. For instance, if they live in a rural area, practical items like sturdy shoes or tools for farming might be more useful than trendy gadgets. Are they very social people who enjoy gatherings? Perhaps cooking supplies or a karaoke machine would be appreciated. Do they have specific hobbies or interests? Tailor your gifts to those! If someone loves gardening, seeds, gardening tools, or even a small greenhouse could be fantastic. If someone loves cooking, they might enjoy some authentic spices, new cooking pots or kitchen appliances. If they have small children, educational toys or books can be a great idea.
Consider the ages of your family members, too. A teenager will likely have different needs and wants than a young child or an elderly relative. A teenager might like a laptop or a gaming device to help with projects at school, whilst your parents might appreciate home appliances or medical support.
Practical Gift Ideas: Beyond the Obvious
So, you have a good sense of what your family needs and wants. Now, let’s brainstorm some actual gift ideas. Here are some practical, thoughtful, and useful options to consider.
Food and Groceries
Sending food and groceries is almost always a welcome gift, especially for families on a tight budget. Rice, canned goods, noodles, coffee, sugar, and cooking oil are staples that can significantly ease their expenses. You can either send these items directly or send money specifically for groceries. Some online platforms even allow to purchase groceries online and have them delivered to your family’s doorstep. The Philippines Statistics Authority reports that food accounts for a significant portion of household expenditure for low-income families. Sending groceries directly helps ensure that your money is used for its intended purpose.
Clothing and Shoes
Clothing and shoes are essential needs. Think about the climate in the Philippines and choose appropriate items. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for the hot weather. Consider sending school uniforms for children, work clothes for adults, or durable shoes for everyday wear. If you know your family member’s sizes, you can shop online or in physical stores where you are. If you’re unsure about the sizes, you can send gift certificates to popular department stores in the Philippines. Also, check the weather in the Philippines, especially during rainy season. They might really need or appreciate jackets or a raincoat if it’s raining a lot during that time of the year.
Medicine and Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare can be a challenge for many Filipino families. Sending over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and first-aid supplies can be a great help, but be mindful of regulations. Vitamins and basic medicines that are available over the counter can be easily shipped, as long as they are sealed. This is something that can alleviate pressure on their finances.
If a family member has a specific medical condition, you could consider helping with their medical expenses. You can send money specifically for their check-ups, medications, or even health insurance premiums. Just make sure you do so legally – avoid carrying money to the Philippines and use dedicated money transfer programs.
Educational Assistance
Education is often a top priority for Filipino families. Sending school supplies, books, uniforms or helping with tuition fees is a meaningful way to support your family’s future. Check in with the school requirements, perhaps they need a new printer, an updated laptop, or maybe the enrolment fees just need paying. Also, think about extracurricular activities – maybe your niece would love some drawing lessons, and you can help by paying for them.
Home Appliances and Gadgets
While these might seem like wants rather than needs, some home appliances and gadgets can greatly improve your family’s quality of life. A refrigerator can help them store food safely and prevent spoilage. A washing machine can save them time and effort on laundry. A smartphone or a laptop can help them connect with you and the rest of the world. Before sending these items, consider your family’s needs and preferences. A fancy smart television might be nice, but if your family primarily watches local channels, a smaller, more basic model might be just as useful. Think about efficiency and cost when sending home appliances. Electricity bills are usually high, so something that’s energy-efficient is preferable.
Financial Support: Sending Money Wisely
Sending money is the most common way for OFWs to support their families. However, it’s important to send money wisely to ensure that it is used effectively. There are several reliable money transfer services like WorldRemit, Remitly, and TransferWise that offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees. Research and compare different options to find the best deal. The World Bank provides data on remittance prices worldwide, which can help you compare fees.
Budgeting and Financial Planning
Encourage your family to create a budget and stick to it. This will help them manage their finances more effectively and avoid overspending. You can even work with them to create a budget together. Help them track their expenses and identify areas where they can save money. If you notice unusual spending, bring this issue up gently. Are they spending money that they don’t have? Perhaps the family needs some financial advice.
Investing for the Future
Encourage your family to invest a portion of the money you send. Investing can help them grow their wealth and secure their future. There are many investment options available in the Philippines, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. However, it’s important to do your research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines has resources on investor education.
The best time to start saving up is now. You can also send money to a specific savings account that you have for them so that their money isn’t touched. You can also think about investing in Pag-ibig for Pag-ibig funds. That way, they’ll have money saved up for a house in the future.
Emergency Fund
Help them build an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or home repairs. An emergency fund can provide a financial cushion and prevent them from going into debt. As a general rule, suggest to keep at least 3 to 6 months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency savings account. If you have an account in their name, make sure they are well aware of it and that they can access it in case of emergency.
Gifts that Last: Investing in Their Future
Beyond the immediate needs, consider sending gifts that will have a long-term positive impact on your family’s life. These investments in their future can provide them with opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Education and Skills Training
Support their education and skills training. This could include paying for tuition fees, buying books, or funding vocational courses. Education and skills training can increase their earning potential and improve their job prospects. Consider enrolling them in online courses or workshops that can enhance their skills and knowledge.TESDA offers a lot of courses that can help Filipinos learn new skills that are beneficial to working abroad.
Starting a Small Business
Help them start a small business. This could provide them with a source of income and financial independence. Consider providing them with seed money, equipment, or training to start their own business. The Department of Trade and Industry in the Philippines offers programs and resources to support small businesses.
Improving Their Home
Improve their home. This could include repairing the roof, renovating the kitchen, or building an extension. A safe and comfortable home can improve their quality of life and provide them with a sense of security. Small renovations can go a long way in making a house more liveable. Start small – changing the color of the walls, fixing up any leaks, or even buying some furniture can help improve their lives.
Practical Tips for Sending Your Gifts
Now that you have some ideas about what to send, let’s talk about some practical tips for sending your gifts safely and efficiently.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
There are several shipping methods available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Consider the cost, speed, and reliability of each option. Postal services are generally the cheapest, but they can be slow and unreliable. Courier services are faster and more reliable, but they are also more expensive. You can get a quote from JRS Express if you are shipping within the Philippines and from international couriers like DHL and UPS if you are shipping from abroad.
Packing Your Gifts Securely
Pack your gifts securely to prevent damage during transit. Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to protect fragile items. Label the box clearly with your family’s address and your return address. You will also need to include your family’s contact number to avoid any problems. It is tempting to remove the price tag, but refrain from doing so as this is useful for customs.
Dealing with Customs and Taxes
Be aware of the customs regulations and taxes in the Philippines. Some items may be subject to import duties or taxes. You may need to declare the value of your gifts and pay the appropriate fees. Research the customs regulations before shipping your gifts to avoid any delays or problems. Note that if you are sending food and medicines, they might have stricter rules that need to be followed. Check the relevant authorities depending on what you are sending.
Staying Connected: The Most Important Gift of All
While sending material gifts is a great way to show your love and support, the most important gift you can give your family is your time and attention. Staying connected with them regularly can strengthen your bonds and provide them with emotional support. This is more important than any gadget or physical gifts!
Making Time for Regular Communication
Schedule regular calls or video chats with your family. This will give you an opportunity to catch up on their lives, share your experiences, and offer support. Even a short phone call can make a big difference. Try to find a time that works for everyone – this may mean waking up early to catch them before they go to bed. In this day and age, there are plenty of instant messaging services that would help you keep in touch. Make sure to use them!
Being Present, Even From Afar
Be present in your family’s lives, even when you’re far away. Attend important events virtually, send thoughtful messages, and show them that you’re thinking of them. Remember birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. You can order flowers or send a cake online to show your love and appreciation.
Listening and Offering Support
Listen actively to your family’s concerns and offer support. Be there for them during difficult times and celebrate their successes. Your emotional support can be invaluable, especially when they’re facing challenges. Sometimes all they need is a listening ear for their worries. Even if you’re far away, you can still be that person for them.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about sending gifts to your family in the Philippines.
What is the best way to send money to the Philippines?
There are many reliable money transfer services available, such as WorldRemit, Remitly, and TransferWise. Research and compare different options to find the best exchange rates and lowest fees. Consider your family’s needs. Do they need access to the money immediately, or can they wait a few days? Some services offer faster transfers, but they may charge higher fees.
What are the customs regulations for sending gifts to the Philippines?
Some items may be subject to import duties or taxes. You may need to declare the value of your gifts and pay the appropriate fees. Research the customs regulations before shipping your gifts to avoid any delays or problems. You can search online for a shipping company that offers clear advice regarding customs, so that you have an idea of how much to expect to pay.
What are some good gift ideas for my family in the Philippines?
Consider your family’s needs and preferences. Practical gifts, such as food, clothing, medicine, and school supplies, are always appreciated. You can also send home appliances, gadgets, or educational assistance. Investing in their future through education, skills training, or starting a small business is also a great idea. If you are running out of ideas, consult the people in your family!
How can I stay connected with my family while I’m working abroad?
Schedule regular calls or video chats with your family. Attend important events virtually, send thoughtful messages, and show them that you’re thinking of them. Listen actively to their concerns and offer support. Even a short phone call can make a big difference.
What should I do if my family is misusing the money I send them?
Have an open and honest conversation with your family about their spending habits. Work with them to create a budget and stick to it. Encourage them to invest in their future and build an emergency fund. You might also consider sending money directly for specific needs, such as groceries or school fees. In a gentle way, tell them about the plans you want for them. Are you saving up for a specific goal, like a house or a new store? Then tell them this in a loving way.
References
Philippines Statistics Authority – Household Final Consumption Expenditure
The World Bank – Remittance Prices Worldwide
Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines – Investor Education
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
So, what are you waiting for? Think about your family, their current situation and their hopes for the future. Then make a choice! Reach out to them, ask them what they need. Plan a video call and make it happen! It’s all about showing them you care, even when you’re miles away. It is not the size of the gift, but the thought that counts. The simple act of reaching out will already put smiles on their faces!
