Americans Scale Back End-of-Year Charitable Giving Amidst Declining Individual Donations
Most Americans aren't planning end-of-year donations, continuing a yearslong decline in individual giving. This trend significantly impacts nonprofits relying on December fundraising.
Overview
An AP-NORC poll indicates most Americans are not planning end-of-year charitable donations, continuing a yearslong decline in individual giving that significantly impacts nonprofits' budget goals.
Only 18% of people plan to donate again before year-end, with many having already made 2025 contributions, contrasting with nearly one-third of annual donations typically occurring in December.
Despite Trump's tax legislation offering new charitable deductions, financial strain from weaker income gains and inflation reduces lower-income households' ability to donate.
While some, like Jeannine Disviscour, increased donations due to funding cuts, others prioritized Black Friday shopping over GivingTuesday, with only 10% donating on the latter.
Nonprofits face new pressures from federal funding cuts, like those to public broadcasting, and natural disasters, creating urgent needs for increased support from a shrinking donor base.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally, primarily by presenting factual AP-NORC poll data and offering balanced perspectives on charitable giving. They avoid loaded language and include diverse viewpoints, such as economic pressures and personal motivations, without editorializing. The reporting focuses on informing readers about current giving trends and influencing factors.