The turkey leftovers are barely even gone, but the ads are coming at us fast and furious.

Black Friday seems to start in mid-November and stretch until Christmas Eve. But it’s possible that as many of us have logged a LOT of extra hours at our homes this year, we may be realizing that we don’t actually need more STUFF. So, on this Giving Tuesday, let’s focus on what we can give and give away this holiday season.

STOCKING UP. In that spirit, Businessolver is sponsoring a Holiday Stock Up Challenge. We were initially inspired by the idea that many individuals have funded their flexible spending accounts (FSAs) this year and might have had to put off spending those FSA funds on planned medical expenses. To that end, we are asking employers and individuals everywhere to encourage FSA members to get their own first aid kits and medicine chests stocked up. In 2020, the IRS added over-the-counter medications (without a prescription) and feminine hygiene items to the eligible expense list.

GIVING BACK. And as we continued to think on the increased homelessness and financially fragile in our communities, we’d also like to encourage employers and individuals to consider helping non-profit agencies stock up THEIR first aid kits and medicine chests too.

TO THOSE IN NEED. Shelters, resource centers and food pantries always have need for personal care and medical items. This year, consider sponsoring an agency from our directory or a local organization. Items such as first aid kits, adhesive bandages, feminine hygiene items, over-the-counter medicines, such as pain relievers, allergy medications and antacids. You can do this initiative as an organization, a local office or on your own.

MAKE IT HAPPEN. We’ve provided a simple toolkit that you or your company can use to encourage FSA spend-down for employees and to encourage a medical items drive in your community. Here you’ll find an email to send to employees and some social graphics to share to spread the word. Use #HolidayStockUpChallenge to let us in on your giving.

SOLVER GIVING. In addition to our stock up challenge, we are also challenging our own Solver team to up their giving starting this December. The Businessolver Foundation will match charitable donations made by Solvers supporting our mission to positively impact the lives of our employees, clients, and communities through philanthropic efforts focused on: mental health; STEM & tech education; and diversity, equity, & inclusion. We are matching a set amount each year in donations as well as volunteer time in an effort to reach more of the communities our Solvers represent.

From the Solver community to yours, we wish you the very best holiday season. Cherish your gifts of time, family and the ability to give back.

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

~Maya Angelou

Get all the details for the Holiday Stock Up Challenge here.