In a year where everyone is struggling in some way, the ever-elusive charity dollar is more competitive than ever - but even more essential to support. Herewith, some lovely things you can buy and own, while knowing you’re doing good in the world.

Artemis Ceramics mastectomy cup

We love some artisanal ceramics, and even more so when they’re designed and sold in the name of charity. This October, Georgia Casey from Artemis Ceramics has teamed up with Olivia Coote from Kōkako to customise her signature ‘boob’ cup for breast cancer awareness.

All individually crafted, these very special mastectomy cups come in a limited edition of 10 - all to be auctioned on TradeMe before the end of the month, with all funds donated to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.

Bidding is now live!

Blush Hello Cup, $49‍

If you’re yet to try a moon cup, and have been idly awaiting the right time... it’s now. Do your vagina and the planet good and raise money for breast cancer research at the same time with a limited edition Hello Cup. These nurse-designed, re-useable cups are in the prettiest blush pink, and 10 percent of purchases are given straight to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.

Bela:Sonder Uma earrings, $35, from Max

We all know women have been disproportionately affected by Covid-related unemployment, which makes the work of charity Dress for Success (which empowers women through styling and wardrobe assistance) more important than ever.

With every item of Bela:Sonder jewellery purchased from Max, another item will be donated to Dress for Success. The company cares about environmental issues as much as social ones: each piece is crafted from recycled brass, and created using as little environmental impact as possible.

Morkins & Co Haututū [mischief] T-shirt, $40

Always huge fans of a slogan tee (and always up for a bit of haututū), we especially love that 100 percent of the proceeds from this (and all Morkins & Co products) are donated to organisations that support kaupapa Māori.

Nope Sisters Nope hoodie, $65

Since 2016, sisters Brittany and Johanna Cosgrove have used fashion to raise awareness and funds for a variety of important charities, with their social enterprise Nope Sisters. From period poverty to arts access, proceeds from their slogan T-shirts, hoodies go to charities including Breast Cancer Foundation, YouthLine, Sustainable Coastlines and more. 25% of net income from their signature Nope items goes to support the work of Sexual Abuse HELP Foundation, Wellington.

Nisa bralette, $119

You can purchase anything from Nisa knowing the money is being put to incredibly special use. The brand employs women from refugee and migrant backgrounds in Wellington; the sense of community they provide is as important as the income.

The great news for fashion lovers is that what started off as a basic undies brand now makes an array of bras, socks, men’s briefs and this newly launched luxe collection.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Limited Edition, $196

Cool fact: Evelyn Lauder was the co-founder of the Pink Ribbon emblem, and to this day, Estée Lauder Companies is one of the major worldwide drivers of fundraising activity for and awareness of breast cancer.

ANR (Advanced Night Repair, to its rabid fanbase) is one of Estée Lauder’s top-selling products and for good reason. October is the best time to stock-up on this must-have item as 20 percent of the retail price goes straight to BCNZF.