In times of war and crisis – let our experts explain how to give and make sure your donations make it to those most in need

The war in Ukraine has seen the world respond in record time with offers of food, aid, shelter and financial support. The reaction to this crisis is truly substantial and an honest reflection of global kindness and caring – but how can we guarantee that all those offers of help, as well as donations, get to those who need it most?

It’s a topic that is all too familiar with leading experts running some of the top charities on the planet – and that’s why Mark Greer from the Charities Aid Foundation was contacted by journalists from The Guardian to provide his expert insight and perspective on how to ensure all those dollars being donated get to where they are needed.

Not only is this a fast-moving situation, but experts say the implications are likely to be long-lasting and charities will need continued support. Humanitarian aid charities are practised in delivering funds over the long term so monetary donations might contribute towards the relief effort and help to resettle families further down the line.

But Mark Greer, the Managing Director of Philanthropy Services at the Charities Aid Foundation, said they recognise it might not be feasible for some people to give financially at the moment. “If people want to donate goods and supplies, it’s worth speaking to international aid charities – like the Red Cross or Save the Children – first to see what’s most needed and how they can help.”

But, he says, if donors give food or medical supplies in the UK, in addition to having to pay shipping costs to neighbouring countries, there are extra benefits charities lose out on. “UK charities can claim gift aid on monetary donations which means that they effectively receive an extra 25% in funding. For example, a £50 charitable donation by a UK taxpayer is worth £62.50 to a charity because they can claim back tax,” he said.

“Employees can also use ‘Give As You Earn’, also known as payroll giving, to set up tax-effective charitable donations directly from your wages which works in a similar way to a salary sacrifice arrangement,” he added. “Employees can choose which charity to support and we have seen many using Give As You Earn to support the Ukraine refugee crisis in this way.”

The Guardian, 10 March 2022

This is an important topic as the crisis in Ukraine escalates and the tragic consequences of war increase.  If you are a journalist looking to cover this or know more then let our experts help with your stories and questions.

Mark Greer is Managing Director of Philanthropy Services at the Charities Aid Foundation, where he works with ‘wealth managers, family offices and professional advisors to provide world class philanthropy services to clients and their families’. Mark is available to speak with reporters about this topic – simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.