How to donate directly to people in need
Lots of people would rather hand money to a person than to an organization. It’s fast, it’s personal, and you know exactly where it went. Here’s how to do it well.
Why people give directly
Giving straight to someone skips the overhead and the wait. A dollar sent on Venmo is in their account in seconds, and they decide what they need most. Around the world, more people now give money directly to people in need than to charities, according to the 2025 World Giving Report.
Ways to donate directly to people
- Someone you know. A friend, coworker or neighbor who’s having a hard month. Often the most useful gift is the one nobody else knows about.
- A goal someone posted. Sites like A Dollar Closer show what a person needs and how much, and the money goes straight to their Venmo.
- Mutual aid groups. Neighborhood groups match people who need help with people who can give, often through a Facebook group or a shared form.
- GiveDirectly. If you want to give cash to people living in extreme poverty abroad, GiveDirectly sends it with very little taken out.
Donating directly to families in need near you
School counselors, church offices and food pantries often know families who are struggling and can pass along a gift card or cash quietly. Ask what would help most. It’s usually groceries, gas, a utility bill or rent.
What to know first
- Gifts to a person aren’t tax-deductible the way gifts to a registered charity are.
- Payment apps are built for people you trust, so read a goal before you give and send amounts you’re comfortable with. See is it safe to Venmo a stranger.
- Small is fine. Plenty of people giving a few dollars adds up faster than you’d think.