Top 7 Charities That Give Money to Individuals | Full List
Have you ever been in a tough financial situation where you needed extra help to make ends meet? Maybe you had unexpected medical bills, or your car broke down, or you lost your job. Whatever the reason, sometimes life throws us a curveball that leaves us struggling to make it through the month. In those moments, knowing where to turn for help can be hard. That’s where charities that give money to individuals come in. These charities and organizations exist to provide financial assistance to people in need, and they can be a lifeline for those struggling to make ends meet.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most reputable and effective charities that give money directly to individuals. We’ll talk about why this support is so important for people in our communities. So if you’ve ever wondered how to get financial assistance when needed most, keep reading – this post is for you.
Here are 7 Charities and Organizations that give money to individuals:
1. GiveDirectly
GiveDirectly is a non-profit organization that delivers digital cash transfers to impoverished people across 11 countries1. They have delivered over $500 million in the last decade1. GiveDirectly believes that people in poverty deserve to make their own choices about improving their lives, so the transfers have no conditions attached to them. GiveDirectly was founded in 2009 as a private giving circle and opened to the public in 20112. They transfer funds primarily to people in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda via mobile phone.
GiveDirectly has launched 19 experimental evaluations (RCTs) with independent researchers documenting the impacts on recipients and the local economy1. According to a study conducted by MIT, cash transfers from GiveDirectly led to significant increases in assets, food security, and mental health. Another study conducted by Innovations for Poverty Action found that cash transfers led to an increase in business activity and income.
2. GoFundMe
Gofundme is an amazing crowdfunding platform that has been helping people raise money for personal causes, community projects, and charitable events since 2010. Imagine creating your very own fundraising campaign, where you set a goal and share your heartfelt story with potential donors through text, images, and videos. That’s exactly what Gofundme allows you to do!
This platform works differently from traditional charities, using a peer-to-peer model. This means that donors can directly contribute to the specific campaigns they want to support, making the process more transparent and efficient. Gofundme has been a lifesaver for millions of people across the globe, helping them overcome financial challenges, strengthen their communities, and access vital resources during tough times.
As for the fees, Gofundme takes just a small percentage from each donation, which allows them to maintain and improve their platform. They’re committed to providing fundraisers and donors with a secure and user-friendly experience. So, if you want to raise money, Gofundme is the perfect platform.
If you are a nonprofit or nonprofit professional or want to fundraise for a nonprofit, then check out our guide on Nonprofit Fundraising Ideas.
Get almost 500+ Fundraising ideas for nonprofits.
3. Identity Inc
Identity Inc is a remarkable charity that has working diligently since 1998 to support and empower over 10,000 youth and their families in Montgomery County, Maryland. With a primary focus on Latino youth living in high-poverty areas, Identity Youth provides valuable social-emotional, academic, and workforce skills to young individuals aged 7-25, preparing them to thrive in today’s world.
One inspiring example of how Identity Inc has made a difference is the story of Maricela Velazquez, who fell behind on her rent in Germantown, Maryland, due to a COVID-19 quarantine. Identity Inc provided more than $800 in direct cash assistance, allowing her to pay her rent promptly and avoid any further financial hardships. Direct cash aid eliminates the red tape and bureaucratic obstacles often encountered when applying for federal rental assistance programs.
In addition to their other services, Identity Youth operates the Youth and Young Adult Eviction Rent Assistance Program (ERAP), funded by federal CARES Act dollars. This essential program aims to prevent evictions by covering past due, current, and future rent for individuals experiencing financial distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By offering these crucial resources and support, Identity Inc has proven to be a lifeline for countless families, helping them overcome financial challenges and secure a brighter future.
4. Modest Needs
Modest Needs Foundation is a warm-hearted, tax-exempt 501c3 charity that has made a real difference in the lives of low-income workers since 2002. By providing small emergency grants to those at risk of slipping into poverty, Modest Needs has successfully helped 17,095 hard-working individuals and families who might otherwise be overlooked by conventional philanthropy.
This incredible organization is dedicated to stopping the cycle of poverty before it starts, focusing on supporting those who don’t qualify for most types of assistance. They aim to assist self-sufficient individuals with unexpected emergency expenses, ensuring they can continue towards financial stability.
The application process is straightforward if you or someone you know could benefit from a Modest Needs grant. Simply register with Modest Needs by visiting this application link. With their compassionate approach and commitment to helping those in need, Modest Needs Foundation is a shining example of how small acts of kindness can significantly impact individuals and families striving to overcome financial challenges.
5. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) is an interest group in the United States focusing on issues affecting those over fifty. The organization said it had more than 38 million members in 2018. AARP was formed in 1958 by Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired educator from California, and Leonard Davis, who later founded the Colonial Penn Group of insurance companies
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) offers a wide range of assistance programs to cater to individuals’ various needs and challenges. These programs include direct financial assistance, valuable services, and information. For those in need, AARP’s financial assistance programs can help cover utility bills, prescription drug copays, housing, transportation, healthcare, legal, and more.
Moreover, the AARP Foundation provides grants for education, healthcare, housing, transportation, and other essential needs. This caring nonprofit organization collaborates with local and national charitable partners to fund these beneficial assistance programs. It’s important to note that some programs are tailored to specific groups or regions, while others are accessible to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria.
In a nutshell, the AARP’s comprehensive assistance programs offer a friendly and supportive helping hand to those in need, addressing various concerns and ensuring that individuals can access the resources they require to lead fulfilling lives.
6. The Points of Light Foundation
The Points of Light Foundation was created in 1990 as a nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C., to promote the spirit of volunteerism described by U.S. President George H. W. Bush in his 1989 inaugural address. The foundation was not a grant-making foundation but engaged in various tasks, including managing its network of volunteer centers, engaging volunteers in disaster recovery, supporting corporate volunteer councils, and more. Points of Light was formed in 2007 by the merger of the Points of Light Foundation and Hands On Network
They are dedicated to directly supporting individuals in their quest to enhance their lives. The foundation plays a significant role in fostering positive change by offering grants to promote volunteerism and aid communities in elevating their quality of life.
Individuals are encouraged to apply for these grants online, with the aim of funding projects that have a meaningful impact on their local communities. By providing financial assistance to those with a vision to create a brighter future, the Points of Light Foundation exemplifies the power of compassion and collaboration in making a difference in the lives of many.
7. Worldwide Orphans Foundation
The Worldwide Orphans Foundation (WWO) is a charitable organization founded in 1997 by Dr. Jane Aronson, a renowned pediatric infectious disease and adoption specialist who dedicated her life to working with children. WWO’s mission has been to enrich the lives of vulnerable children by improving their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive well-being1. Today, it has helped over 8,000 children in countries around the world.
The Worldwide Orphans Foundation is a compassionate nonprofit organization offering direct financial support to needy individuals and families. This benevolent foundation focuses on funding programs like medical assistance, education, food and water initiatives, emergency aid, and much more. Additionally, they provide grants to individuals requiring assistance with necessities such as childcare or transportation.
It’s important to note that these grants are not intended for emergencies and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Alongside providing immediate financial aid, the Worldwide Orphans Foundation strives to develop long-term solutions for pressing issues in underdeveloped countries. One such initiative is the nonprofit’s Discovery Fund, which promotes sustainable solutions to enduring challenges.
By supporting Discovery Fund projects, the foundation offers assistance in critical areas like clean water, healthcare, education, and food security. Through their dedicated efforts, the Worldwide Orphans Foundation helps improve lives in the short term and works towards creating a brighter future for communities in need.
Other ways to get money:
Government Programs
The U.S. government has a variety of programs in place to financially support individuals in need. For instance, the Department of Agriculture administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as “food stamps,” which offers eligible families a benefits card to purchase nutritious food items. The Department of Housing and Urban Development provides housing vouchers to help low-income families with monthly rent or mortgage payments.
Additionally, the Department of Labor’s Unemployment Insurance program aids those who have lost their jobs. At the same time, Health and Human Services oversees the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program, another source of cash benefits. The federal government’s Benefit Finder website contains information on further assistance programs, including childcare, disaster relief, and medical expenses. Although managed by state agencies, most federal assistance programs have complementary state-level programs.
Local Charities
Various community-based charitable organizations occasionally provide cash assistance to those in need, such as houses of worship, family service groups, local “lifeline” groups, private veterans aid groups, and nonprofit healthcare services.
For example, 211 Texas, a government-sponsored information service, lists multiple organizations in Houston that offer emergency rent assistance or help with overdue electricity bills. Your state, city, or county Human Services department (or a similarly named government office) typically maintains a list of local resources for individuals requiring assistance.
Other Sources of Assistance
While foundations primarily grant funds to organizations, some also offer financial support to individuals. Foundation directories, available at your local library or through online services like the Foundation Center, can help you explore these funding opportunities.
Additionally, online fundraising campaigns on websites such as Fundly or GiveForward can raise money for needy individuals, presenting another valuable avenue for financial assistance.
Navigating the world of charities and organizations that provide financial assistance to individuals can be overwhelming.
Here are some helpful tips and advice to guide you through the process, as well as additional strategies to explore when seeking direct financial support:
- Research: Before contacting charities and organizations, research which offers individuals financial assistance. Look for organizations that cater to your specific needs, such as healthcare, education, housing, or emergency aid.
- Eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each organization or charity you’re considering. Some organizations have specific requirements, such as age, income, location, or demographic group, so ensure you meet the qualifications before applying.
- Prepare documentation: Gather all necessary documentation to support your application, such as proof of income, bills, medical records, or other relevant documents. Having everything organized and ready will make the application process smoother and faster.
- Apply early: Many organizations and charities have limited funds, so applying as early as possible are essential. Remember that some grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Reach out to multiple organizations: Don’t limit yourself to just one organization. Apply to several charities that align with your needs to increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.
- Be honest and clear: When applying for financial aid, clearly state your situation and needs. Be honest about your circumstances and how the assistance will benefit you.
- Explore crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and Indiegogo allow individuals to raise funds for personal causes, emergencies, or projects. Consider starting a crowdfunding campaign to reach a wider audience and garner financial support.
- Utilize social media: Share your story and financial needs with your network on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Friends, family, and even strangers may be willing to contribute to your cause.
- Engage with local community resources: Reach out to local community centers, churches, or nonprofits that may offer financial assistance or support.
- Consider government assistance: Explore government programs, such as unemployment benefits, food assistance, or Medicaid, that can provide financial support during challenging times.
By following these tips and strategies, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the various charities and organizations offering financial assistance and potentially secure the support you need.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it’s essential to recognize the significant impact that charities and organizations have on individuals facing financial hardships. These compassionate entities strive to provide a lifeline to those who may feel overwhelmed or lost in their time of need. While many people view charitable giving as a one-way street, focusing solely on how the recipient benefits, it’s important to consider the ripple effect such acts of kindness create within our communities and beyond.
When individuals receive financial support, it addresses their immediate needs and fosters a sense of hope, stability, and empowerment. This renewed hope can inspire recipients to pay it forward by volunteering, contributing to their communities, or supporting others in need when their circumstances improve. In this way, every act of charity has the potential to create a cycle of giving that reaches far beyond the initial beneficiary.
As you reflect on the various charities that offer financial assistance to individuals, take a moment to consider your role within this intricate web of support. Whether seeking aid or looking to contribute to a charity, remember that each small act of kindness can transform lives and nurture a more compassionate, interconnected world. Together, we can make a difference, one individual at a time.
