Gifts that Give Back 2020
Give a gift that makes a difference — especially this year… because we all know the world needs a whole lot of healing right now. By this, I mean: consider making a charitable donation in someone’s honor in lieu of traditional gifting. After all, many of us have that wealthier member of the family that truly doesn’t need any more stuff.
We’ve created a list of some excellent organizations that are truly making a positive impact in the world right now (and always). When you make a donation to any of the charities below, you can feel confident knowing your funds are going where they’re supposed to, and making a difference in others’ lives. Oh — and it’s tax deductible.
We’ve grouped notable charities by category:
- Relief for Housing Insecurity
- Hunger Relief/Food Insecurity
- COVID Response/Relief Efforts
- Supporting Children
- Mental Health
Relief for Housing Insecurity
According to HUD’s Annual Point-in-Time Count, 17 of every 10,000 people in the U.S. were homeless for at least one night in January 2019. We’ve yet to fully understand the extent to which the coronavirus pandemic has (and will) continue to affect homelessness, but it’s safe to say that it’s definitely made the crisis worse. This year, more than ever, giving to organizations that help combat homelessness and housing insecurity in America matter. You can also volunteer your time to help the cause.
Hunger Relief/Food Insecurity
According to Feeding America, “the coronavirus pandemic has left millions of families without stable employment. More than 50 million people, including 17 million children, may experience food insecurity in 2020.” Check out these organizations that help put food onto the tables of those who need it the most:
Feeding America No Kid Hungry Rise Against Hunger (worldwide)
COVID Response/Relief Efforts
It goes without saying that COVID has affected every single human being in myriad ways. Around the world, people have suffered job losses and unforeseen financial insecurity, decreased physical and mental health, and many have lost a loved one to the disease. Here are some great organizations that directly support a variety of coronavirus response and relief efforts:
Supporting Free Clinics for Underserved Populations Gates Foundation “Combating Covid-19 Fund” Brave of Heart Fund (healthcare workers) Good360 – provides goods for those in need National Domestic Workers Alliance Restaurant Workers Community Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund
Supporting Children
Though supporting our children is not just a COVID-era issue, it’s no surprise that they need our help, support and protection now more than ever. The 2020 calendar year has left more children vulnerable to mental health struggles, hunger, child abuse, educational disparities, and so much more. By contributing to any of the following organizations, we can help offer support to children who need it most:
Mental Health
According to Mental Health America: “Even before COVID-19, the prevalence of mental illness among adults was increasing. In 2017-2018, 19% of adults experienced a mental illness, an increase of 1.5 million people over last year’s dataset.” Our mental health and wellbeing is of utmost importance, and it’s crucial that everyone who needs it has access to care and support. You can help — consider making a donation to one of the organizations below:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Mental Health America American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Child Mind Institute
You can also refer back to our 2019 list of Gifts that Give Back.
If you have a charitable organization you feel passionate about, please share with us in the comments below. This year, we urge you to give back to the community in meaningful ways. It truly is the gift that will keep on giving.
Happy holidays, everyone!
Marissa and team at Lucie’s List
See also!
Holiday Gift Guides 2020
- Gift Ideas for Babies 2020
- Gifts Ideas for Toddlers and Preschoolers 2020
- Gift Guide for Twins 2020
- Gift Ideas for Her 2020
- Gift Ideas for Him 2020
- Best Gifts Under $50 2020
- Best Luxurious Gifts 2020
- Gifts that Give Back 2020
- Favorite Holiday Books for Kids