Moving can be a very stressful and expensive process. Particularly, if you are moving to a new city or relocating to a new state. Worrying about the cost of renting a moving truck or hiring movers is only a fraction of what you have to contend with the expense of relocating your belongings.
This is where charities that help with moving expenses can come in handy. These organizations provide financial assistance to low-income individuals and families who are facing the high cost of moving. Sometimes, they may even provide free storage for your belongings until you can find a new home. So if you’re facing the prospect of an expensive move, consider reaching out to one of these charities for help.
- The United Way offers a program called 2-1-1 that can provide you with a list of charities that help people with moving expenses
- The Red Cross may be able to provide you with financial assistance for moving expenses related to a disaster
- Operation Homefront helps military families relocate when they are transferred to a new duty station
- Habitat for Humanity can help you build or improve your home if you’re unable to afford it on your own
- The YMCA provides scholarships for members who need to relocate due to a job transfer or other unforeseen circumstance
- Catholic Charities
- Housing Industry Foundation’s Emergency Housing Fund
- 211
- Jewish Family Services
- VA housing assistance
- Salvation Army
- HUD housing and rental assistance
How do non-profits get free space?
What if one of the charities above needs space to provide care and assistance to those in need? When seeking free space for a non-profit, one option is to request an in-kind donation from a company with space available.
Companies may be willing to donate the use of office space, conference rooms, or other facilities in order to support the work of the non-profit. In addition, 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profits can accept tax-deductible donations from individuals or organizations, which can help offset the cost of renting or leasing space.
Another way to get free space is by finding a donor who is willing to lease or rent the space to the non-profit at a discounted rate.
Ultimately, many options are available for non-profits seeking free or reduced-cost space, and it is important to explore all of the possibilities to find the best solution for the organization.
Perhaps the most common way is by seeking an in-kind donation from a company that has the space available. This is often done by:
- Write a letter to the company owner or manager
- Outline the goals and mission of the non-profit organization
- Explain how having free office space would be beneficial.
Finally, many non-profits also work with city or town governments to secure free or discounted office space in public buildings. Whatever route is taken, acquiring free office space can be a lifesaver for a non-profit organization, particularly those that are just getting started.
What are the most common funding sources for non-profit agencies?
Funding is always a challenge for non-profit organizations. However, there are a few common funding sources that tend to be reliable. One is government grants. While obtaining a grant can be competitive and time-consuming, it is often worthwhile.
Another common funding source is company donations. In addition, many businesses are happy to support non-profit organizations that align with their values.
Fees for goods or services are another common funding source. This can include charging for admission to events or selling products that support the organization’s mission.
Resource recycling is another option to explore. For example, some non-profits collect used clothing or electronics and sell them to raise funds.
Community donations are another common form of funding. This can include hosting fundraisers or establishing donation programs.
Finally, crowdfunding has become an increasingly popular way to fund non-profits. Organizations can use platforms like GoFundMe to solicit donations from individuals around the world.
The best way to identify which will work best for your organization is to explore all your options and choose the one that makes the most sense for your mission and audience. As a marketer, I highly suggest hiring a marketing or Public Relations firm to help identify your audience, create awareness and drive traffic to your website to then convert them into donors to support your mission financially.
What is the largest source of revenue for non-profits?
Even though non-profits receive non-profit funding from diverse sources, individual charitable contributions amount for the highest percentage of the financing. The key takeaway is that every little bit counts regarding charitable giving because it all adds up to make a big difference. When everyone pitches in, it does have an impact. Most people are aware of the many causes that charities support, but they may not realize how much of a difference their contribution can make.
For example, many people donate money to food banks or soup kitchens without realizing that their donation might be used to purchase perishable items like milk or eggs that will go bad before they can be distributed. Yet, these donations are just as crucial as non-perishable items because they help ensure that people in need have access to healthy food.
Charitable giving is important because it provides essential support for those in need and helps to build a sense of community. When we give to others, we are reminded of our own human capacity for compassion and kindness. In a world that can often seem harsh and cold, acts of charity remind us of our inherent ability to care for one another. And when we feel connected to others, we are more likely to work together for the common good.
That reminds me of my absolute, all-time favorite charity organization to donate to…PBS.
Is a contribution to PBS tax-deductible?
Yes. All contributions to the PBS Foundation are 100 percent tax-deductible. When you make a gift to the PBS Foundation, it will be officially acknowledged by email or letter. This correspondence is your tax receipt and provides proof to the IRS of your gift.
I have always been a massive fan of PBS. As a kid, I grew up watching Sesame Street and Mr. Dress-up. I looked forward to tuning in each day to see my favorite characters like Grover and Kermit.
As I got older, I continued to watch PBS, particularly during pledge drives with my mom. They would show Christmas specials during the Holiday drives, music concerts of my mom’s favorite classic rock artists, and old musicals that she and my nana watched during other drives; you name it, PBS had it during those pledge drives! I remember thinking how grateful I was that such a valuable resource was available for free.
While I never could give back to PBS what they so freely gave to me, my younger cousins, and my own children, I tried to donate when I could. I wish I could have given more, as PBS is such an important institution. It provides high-quality programming that is both educational and entertaining. It is a trusted source of news and information too. And it is available for everyone, regardless of income level.
Hopefully, when I am better off financially as a Nana myself watching Curious George with my grandchildren, I will be in a position to donate more significant amounts to secure its future for many more years to come.
Charities that help with moving expenses
In conclusion, when seeking funding for moving, solutions are available to both individuals and non-profit organizations. Many options are available, and with a bit of research, it is possible to find the right fit. With perseverance and determination, finding the resources needed to make a successful move is possible. Best of luck to you!