1 minute read
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
Kathy Carter gives us the top tips to support charities in the current economic climate
We have all witnessed the cost of living crisis weaving its way into our lives during the last year, from inflation rises and fuel hikes, to ongoing difficulties associated with the pandemic, and a widespread reduction in disposable income. Many families are increasingly relying on charity support to keep afloat; but the bittersweet irony is that charities are themselves struggling. So, what is the reality for charities; and what can we, as supporters, do?
Advertisement
Lert’s look at some data. The UK’s for their services from end-users, e.g. around food banks and community support. Fifty nine per cent of surveyed charity leaders were unsurprisingly concerned that supporters may not continue to, or even begin to donate to their cause, because of the current crisis. Over half of the respondents (58%) said that generating income and finding financial stability was one of their three top challenges; while a stark 35% of charity leaders believed that their organisation would struggle to survive the crisis
The reality is clearly bleak. So, how can we ensure charities’ survival, and support them through these terribly tough
The Essence Of Our Community
Let’s take a leaf from King Charles’ book. The sovereign, in his Christmas Day speech, spoke of the ‘everlasting light’ which can be seen as ‘A belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch, with goodness and compassion, the lives of others, and to shine a light in the world around them.’
The King spoke of the light being ‘The essence of our community and the very foundation of our society’. He spoke of seeing it in ‘The humanity of people… who so readily respond to the plight of others.’ He paid tribute to all those ‘Who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all, their time, to support those around them in greatest need, together with the many charitable organisations which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances.’
This speaks of the desire to keep helping those in need, even when we are struggling ourselves. It is something Britons are renowned for; 64% of us donate to charity (source: worldatlas.com). Therefore, best advice is to only donate what money you can afford; but know that every donation helps, no matter how small. And bear in mind that there are many ways in which we can support charities, without physically giving cash.
