There are a large number of charities out there and if you want to donate money or items, you want to be sure it’s going to a reputable place. As more information comes out about organizations like Goodwill, you want to make sure your contribution really makes an impact. Here is a list of real charities that are addressing urgent needs and creating lasting change.
1. Feeding America
Feeding America was founded in 1979. Since its inception, it has served millions of people who face food insecurity in the United States. Right now, more families are struggling to afford basic needs, like groceries. This has made the need for food donations more important than ever. If you’d rather donate money, every dollar can provide up to 10 meals through Feeding America. It can truly make a difference in someone’s life.
2. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital has a mission to advance cures and prevention methods for childhood diseases. No family who goes to St. Jude’s for treatment receives a bill. They are also provided with travel money, housing, and food. Because they do all of this for patients, St. Jude’s is always in need of donations to be able to continue its life-saving work.
3. American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is more than just blood donations. This organization provides disaster relief and emergency assistance to communities that are struggling. The Red Cross might respond to natural disasters, house fires, or on-site blood shortages. They are also often the first charity on the scene to offer aid during these intense situations. Donating money or blood to the Red Cross can make a big difference in the community.
4. Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to build affordable housing for families in need. Housing prices have skyrocketed in recent years, so Habitat’s work has become even more important. All donations made to the organization go straight toward construction materials, land, and labor costs. Your money will go directly to helping someone receive stable living conditions.
5. Doctors Without Borders
Doctors Without Borders is another great charity to consider. This group offers medical aid in war-torn areas of the world, refugee camps, and locations impacted by natural disasters. The team of medical professionals offer critical healthcare to people who really need it and they are often exposed to dangerous environments themselves. Donations help make sure that essential medical care gets to the people who need it around the world. Additionally, Doctors Without Borders is known for transparency in how it spends donated funds.
6. The Nature Conservancy
If you are passionate about the environment, The Nature Conservancy is a great charity to look into. This organization focuses on protecting the earth’s natural resources and fighting climate change. The Nature Conservancy works within 70 countries to conserve land, water, and wildlife. Any donated money will go toward conservation efforts, research, and sustainable solutions. It’s a great way to invest in the planet’s future.
7. Charity: Water
For people in developing countries, clean water can be hard to come by. Charity: Water’s mission is to provide people around the world with access to clean water. One hundred percent of the donations made fund water projects like building wells and installing filtration systems. Like other charities on this list, Charity: Water is known for their transparency. In fact, they often give donors GPS coordinates of the wells their money helped build.
8. The Trevor Project
LGBTQ+ youth are at a higher risk for mental health problems and suicide. The Trevor Project serves this community, providing suicide prevention and crisis intervention services. They offer a 24/7 hotline, chat, and text services for young individuals who need help. Donating to The Trevor Project will contribute to a safer, more inclusive world for LGBTQ+ youth.
9. Alzheimer’s Association
Anyone who has had a loved one suffer from Alzheimer’s knows it is a terrible disease. The Alzheimer’s Association is dedicated to researching the disease and providing support for families. They use the funding to raise awareness and further their initiatives. If you want to find a way to contribute to this foundation, there are a number of ways to do your part.
10. World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) focuses on conserving endangered species and their habitats. They also promote sustainability to decrease our carbon footprint and further ensure that animals aren’t impacted by our existence on Earth. The organization also combats illegal wildlife trading, deforestation, and ocean pollution. Donations to the WWF go directly to conservation efforts, research, and advocacy programs to protect wildlife.
Choose a Charity That Aligns with Your Values
As you can see, there are plenty of real charities that need your help. Pick an organization that aligns with your values. Whether you want to save the planet or you want to change lives, there is a charity for you. Of course, make sure you do your research about each of these organizations to be sure you know what you are funding. But it’s certain that each of these foundations will use your money well.