There are many ways that we can begin to better ourselves and helping the less fortunate is one of the various means of doing so. Charity is a huge aspect of many cultures and religions around the world. For instance, Muslims are required to pay Zakat, whilst Christians are expected to make donations on notable holidays. However, even if you’re not religious, it’s still extremely important to give back and help those that are less fortunate than yourself. Despite this, many of us convince ourselves that our budget doesn’t allow us to contribute to charity. However, it’s mainly a case of recognizing as and when you can donate.
Donate Time Instead of Money
One way that you can factor charitable donations into your budget is by giving your time instead of your money. Whether you spend a Saturday volunteering at a soup kitchen, a foodbank, or homeless shelter, these are extremely valuable additions to the lives of people in need. Sometimes, your time can even be more valuable than a monetary donation, as this shows a real care and dedication to a good cause. Additionally, you don’t solely have to help someone desperately in need, as charity comes in many forms. You might do something as simple and babysitting for a friend or running an errand for a family member.
Gradually Weave It into Your Budget
Another way to make charitable donations more manageable is by gradually weaving them into your budget. This way, you won’t notice that a chunk of your money is missing, as it will be a gradual increase before reaching a set amount. You might even factor charitable donations into your gift budget; it’s likely that you’ll have gifts to buy throughout the year for birthdays, so why not include your donations within this? No donation is ever too small, and every tiny contribution goes to a greater cause, so don’t pressure yourself to give what you can’t afford.
Cut a Subscription
The majority of us pay a monthly subscription for some kind of streaming service. If you have Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, NOWTV, or Hulu Premium, it’s likely that you don’t really use one of them. Therefore, instead of this needlessly being removed from your account every month, you could use this money as a monthly donation. This is particularly handy for people who want to reduce their screentime, as you’re presented with a win-win scenario. Not only has your access to this media been restricted, but you’re also doing what you can to help a worthy cause.
Pay It Forward
If someone does something nice that helps you save money, you could donate the money that you would have otherwise spent. For example, if your boss at work covers the cost of your lunch, you might use your intended lunch money to feed someone hungry. Similarly, if someone gives you a lift somewhere, you may use your intended travel fare and donate it to a greater cause. This is a great way of recognizing your blessings whilst also ensuring that those who need it are given aid. Kindness triggers kindness, and this is a feeling that everyone should aim to share.
Attend Fundraisers
Fundraising events may not even feel like you’re doing anything for the greater good, but this is another win-win scenario. You get to have a good time, whilst any money that you spend goes towards helping someone in need.
Are you looking to incorporate charitable donations into your budget? Which of the above measures are you planning to implement? Always remember that even the smallest contribution can help.
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