If instead of purchasing fair trade goods, or supporting craft artists in third world countries you would rather give direct, then take a look at Kiva.org

Kiva.org Entrepreneur

Through micro loans Kiva is able to fund mini entrepreneurs in developing countries, via donors who come from all over. When you visit the Kiva website, you will come across a variety of causes to support, and most if not all, can be funded with a small amount of money.

The way it works is you look around the site, and find an entrepreneur who catches your heart, look up their profile and cause. You then register with Kiva, and align yourself with said cause. You donate as part of a group, so if the cause you want to support needs $750, your share could be as little as $25.

This is a fantastic opportunity to lend a hand, without buying anything. The money raised is given directly to the small business owners, and you are sent reports detailing the progress of your small loan. Yes, it is a loan, you are repaid at certain agreed upon terms.

To find out more and how you can become a micro loan lender, head on over to Kiva.org