The International Rescue Committee, which assists refugees fleeing from conflict or disaster, offers two dozen gift options that serve people in more than 40 countries around the world — from mosquito nets to prevent malaria ($18) to family-tracing kits to help caseworkers reunite families ($50), or even a full month's rent for refugees arriving in the U.S. ($800). Your recipient will receive a printed or e-mailed card describing the gift and its impact. Berger urges gift givers to evaluate charities based on the way they spend money as well as how transparent their operations are. The IRC, a time-honored charity since 1933, spends more than 90% of its funds on programs.