Even though Christmas is a universal occasion, those who enjoy it are truly privileged. Gifts under the tree, healthy breakfast with the family, a warm fire in the hearth are all blessings that the poor have little knowledge of.

However, you can change that.

Why not give your loved ones a Kiva Gift Card that represents a small loan to a less-privileged person in Africa, Europe, Asia or even the Americas. The recipient of the gift card can choose which microfinance client to support and track their escape from poverty as well as their progress towards a better social and economic life.

The great thing about the Kiva Gift Card is that once the loan is re-paid, your relatives and friends can lend the money to another client, and the cycle goes on. You decide the initial value of the gift card, which can range from $25 to $10,000, and you can get them printed, e-mailed, or even mailed to your loved ones.

Christmas is a special time of the year. Make it special for your loved ones, as well as a Kiva client.