Wise Charity

Bismillahi Rahmani Rahim

Salaam Alaikum wa Rahmatullah


I always like to be generous, and even though these are tight financial times I want to help my less fortunate neighbors.  There are always donation bins at the grocery store.  You can purchase a non-perishable item and toss it in the bin on the way out.  The item is then donated to a worthy cause.

I never do that.  I’m not stingy, but I found out that if I donate $1 to my local food pantry, it gives them the ability to purchase $8 worth of food and household items to give to the poor.  They have more buying power because of their relationships with grocery stores and wholesalers.  So why should I donate one can of corn, when by giving the money it would have cost to the food pantry, I can help someone have eight cans of corn?

We have to be smart with our money.  Shop around to find the best bargain for clothing, food, housing, cars, all that.  And also shop around to find the best charity.  May charities have a lot of administrative expenses.  A relatively small portion of your donation actually goes to those in need.

The American Institute on Philanthropy has a list of the top-rated charities.  Check them out.  And look around for local charities.  Remember “think globally, act locally”?  Look to the people in your neighborhood, in your town, and be a part of your community and help where needed there.  That help might be money, or clothes, or time.  You don’t have to be rich to help those in need.

http://www.charitywatch.org/toprated.html