Instantly Change a Life

I just came across a website called Modest Needs.  They are a not for profit group determined to stop the cycle of poverty BEFORE it starts for the low-income workers whom conventional philanthropy has forgotten.

This group was founded in 2002, and according to their website, "by working together in this very 'modest' way, Modest Needs' donors have stopped 6601 low-income individuals and families from entering the vicious cycle of poverty and a lifetime of dependence on the public welfare system for their survival."

They seem to be a platform.  If you need assistance, or if you'd like to help provide assistance, you can do both through their charity.  The public is then able to help provide for things like an unexpected car repair, the unanticipated visit to the doctor, or the unusually large heating bill.

If someone is in need, then there is an application to be submitted.  All applications are processed and the Modest Needs' Client Advocacy Specialists perform extensive due diligence.  They find out who all lives in the household, if the applicant has ever received government assistance, if they live above or below the poverty level, and if they have applied for or received help from Modest Needs before (none of which disqualifies them for receiving assistance).

I only looked at the first page of needs, but they were for things like getting a car back on the road, help with mortgage payments they fell behind on, help for other non-profits, and medical bill assistance for a stroke victim.  The thing I really like is that this charity doesn't judge -- they want to help as many people as they can regardless of their circumstances.

The site says that "right here, right now, you can INSTANTLY change the life of a low-income family".  I have not registered yet, but you have to do so to provide help or to receive help.

This resource would be awesome for someone who has recently become unemployed and having trouble paying bills, buying groceries, or keeping current with their mortgage. 

I especially like one of the last things this site says: "But more importantly, together, we can make sure that no hard-working person is ever forced to choose between taking a child to the doctor and putting food on the table."

That's a worthy charity to me.