THE International Day of Charity, observed annually on September 5th, serves as a global reminder of the power of kindness and solidarity. Established by the United Nations in 2012, this day honors the legacy of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, whose lifelong dedication to alleviating poverty and suffering inspired millions. Its purpose is to mobilize people, NGOs, and stakeholders worldwide to engage in philanthropic activities and volunteerism. By raising awareness and encouraging action, the day highlights the critical role charity plays in addressing humanitarian crises, reducing inequality, and fostering peace.
The importance of the International Day of Charity cannot be overstated. In a world grappling with conflicts, disasters, and systemic challenges, charity bridges gaps and offers hope. It amplifies the work of organizations and individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others. From providing emergency relief to supporting long-term development, charity empowers communities and transforms lives. This day also educates the public about global issues, fostering a culture of generosity that transcends borders, religions, and cultures.
The legacy of Mother Teresa epitomises the spirit of this day. Born in 1910, she devoted herself to helping India’s destitute and marginalized. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, an organization renowned for its work among the poor, sick, and dying. Her unwavering compassion earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 and left an indelible mark on the world. By choosing the anniversary of her passing for this observance, the UN underscores the value of selflessness and the impact one person can have.
So, how can people participate in charity?
The opportunities are vast and adaptable to every capacity. Donating to trusted NGOs is one of the most effective ways to contribute. Organizations like ActionAid operate on the ground during crises, ensuring resources reach those in need. Volunteering time and skills—locally or globally—also creates meaningful change. Fundraising campaigns, advocacy, and even small acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbour, all embody the essence of charity. The digital age has made it easier than ever to support causes, with online platforms enabling swift and secure donations.
Flood-hit Punjab is calling for help
Today, the spirit of the International Day of Charity finds urgent relevance in Punjab, India. The region, often called the nation’s breadbasket, faces unprecedented floods. All 23 districts are affected, with lives lost, crops destroyed, and communities shattered. The farmers who feed millions now fight for their own survival. This disaster highlights the vital need for charity. It is a call to action for the world to step forward and support relief efforts.
Organisations like ActionAid India Association are already on the ground in Punjab. They provide life-saving essentials: food, clean water, shelter, and medical care. Their work embodies the principles celebrated on the International Day of Charity. But they cannot do it alone. They rely on the generosity of global citizens to amplify their impact. Every donation, no matter how small, becomes a lifeline for those struggling to rebuild. Donate by clicking here.
Visit give.do to choose a cause
On this International Day of Charity, you can make a meaningful difference by visiting give.do. Discover a cause close to your heart—whether it’s education for underprivileged children, healthcare for rural communities, animal welfare, disaster relief like the Punjab floods, or environmental conservation. Choose to make a one-time donation or amplify your impact through sustained monthly support. Your contribution, big or small, helps NGOs create lasting change. Act today. Turn compassion into action.
The International Day of Charity is more than a symbolic observance. It is a catalyst for tangible change. It reminds us that empathy without action is incomplete. By engaging in charity, we honor Mother Teresa’s legacy and contribute to a fairer, more compassionate world. As Punjab reels from devastation, let this day inspire us to extend our hands and hearts. Let us turn awareness into aid and compassion into change.
In the words of Mother Teresa, “We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” This September 5th, let us come together to make a difference. Support Punjab. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Together, we can transform tragedy into hope.
Give.do ‘s mission is to “make giving bigger and better”. We are the most trusted giving platform in India. Through our technology solutions and services, we enable individuals and organizations to raise funds for, and donate to any cause they care about, with trust and convenience. Our community of 2.7M+ individual donors and 300+ organizations supports 3,000+ verified nonprofits, serving 15M+ people across the country.
Give exists to alleviate poverty by enabling the world to give. Established in 2000, Give, together with its partners, is the largest and most trusted giving platform in India. Give enables individuals and organizations to raise and donate funds conveniently to any cause they care about, with offerings including crowdfunding, corporate giving, cause marketing, and philanthropy consulting. Give’s community of 2.6M+ donors supports 3,000+ verified nonprofits, serving 15M+ people across the country.
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