One of the most effective ministries I have wtinessed is the concept of a Christmas store. A ministry will receive donated unwrapped new toys and games. Then they will set up a store and sell the items at a tenth of the original cost. This is so much more effective than giving away toys or showing up at someone's house as an outsider to "give" the children something.
By bringing toys to a persons home you immediately shatter the dignity of the parents or guardian. Imagine for one minute how you would feel if you were poor and couldn't provide for your child. The shame and despair one must go through by having an outsider come and pity your situation. No matter how right your motives may be that is NOT a good way to start a relationship for a number of reasons.
1- You have made a statement that the family needs you but they don't have anything to offer you
2- You have created a dependancy relationship by enabling not empowering
3- You have assumed your role in that families life that you are the help.
4- You are taking away their initiative and manupilating then for the cause of you feeling good about doing something
5- You come across as someone who pities not loves the poor
