Poverty-stricken children typically do not have access to adequate medical care, clean water and enough food for proper nourishment. In developing countries, for example, one in three children are malnourished. If you have a heart for poverty-stricken children, you can help -- even if you don't have a lot of money to spare.
Instructions
1. Choose a reputable charity, such as World Vision and Save the Children, to donate money or sponsor a child with monthly monetary donations. The Federal Trade Commission has good information on making sure the charity is not a scam, especially if they are soliciting you. It also lists several websites you can check to see if a charity is reputable, such as charitynavigator.org or charitywatch.org. You can also check the Better Business Bureau.
2. Search the Internet using a search engine that donates a cent or two to a charity of your choice, such as donationharbor.com and goodsearch.com (see Resources). Select your charity from the pull down menu and install a search toolbar for convenience. Then, every time you search for something on the Internet, do it from the charity's site or toolbar. You can also purchase from online stores using their links and a portion of the money goes to your selected charity.
3. Volunteer your time. You don't have to go to a foreign country to help children afflicted with poverty. Habitat for Humanity, for example, builds homes for low-income families right in the United States. Volunteering with the Boys and Girls Clubs is also a good way to help less fortunate kids.
4. Donate an unused boat, car, motorcycle, camper or trailer. Many organizations sell these and donate the money to a charity of choice. You can also donate other goods, such as clothes and household items, to an organization that raises money to help low-income people and families. Be sure you choose a reputable organization.
5. Sponsor individuals who are missionaries or volunteers who directly help impoverished children. Many people are in the field digging wells, teaching farming techniques, installing water filtration systems, educating remote villages on disease prevention, and providing medical care. Many work through organizations, but the individuals usually have to raise the money themselves. Ask friends and family or a local religious organization if you don't know anyone to sponsor.
Tags: donate money, medical care
