For one little girl, helping the needy is more important than new toys.

Mom Logic's Jenny: About a month ago, I received a sweet email that really touched me. It was a letter from a cousin whose daughter had expressed interest in family members donating to local charities in lieu of receiving Christmas gifts. At the young age of seven, Marin understands the importance of giving back -- especially during an economic crisis when so many charities are lacking in support. She decided that she has enough "toys and things," and not only was she going to give away all of her toys and clothes that she has outgrown, but that she wanted to make donations with her own money (which her parents will match). To further support Marin's wishes, her parents also requested that their gifts be donations to the charities of their choice.

Well, Marin's generosity is definitely contagious because now everyone in the family is in on it and we will all make donations to charities instead of giving each other gifts. (Which frankly, has turned out to be a lot more fun than figuring out where to get my brother a gift card). The decision Marin has made is selfless and impressive -- and the reaction it has inspired is truly what the holiday season should be about. Great job, Marin!!

Here are some of the charities that Marin wishes to contribute to:

NATIONAL WILDLIFE FEDERATION: After reading a story in her Ranger Rick magazine, Marin decided she wanted to do something to help preserve the Gray Wolf. The NWF has a program that helps this conservation effort. National Wildlife Federation's mission is to inspire Americans to protect wildlife for our children's future.

FRIENDS OF THE WORLD FOOD PROGRAM: Marin also wants to help hungry children in Africa. This program works with the UN's World Food Program to help feed people all over the world.

PATH: PEOPLE ASSISTING THE HOMELESS: A couple years ago, Marin decided to bake corn muffins and bring them down to Santa Monica to feed the homeless. It was a wonderful experience, and she would like to continue to help those in need locally. PATH provides lots of great services, from transitional housing to mental health services, to help the homeless get back on track.