Best Charitable Institutions to Donate to in the Philippines

Last Updated – Feb 23, 2022 @ 10:49 am

Whether it’s the season of giving or not, doing your part to help is such an important thing to do. There are hundreds of ways you can give back.

You can start a fundraiser, you can volunteer to your favorite organization, or even do random acts of kindness. Another thing you can do is to donate money to a nonprofit or charity.

There are thousands of charities and nonprofit organizations in the Philippines. Because of this, it can be confusing to decide where to give.

This is why we’ve gathered the best charities to donate to in the country. This way, you can be assured that your money will go a long way to support a cause that is dear to your heart.

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What are Charitable Institutions?

A charitable institution, also called a nonprofit organization, aims to advance a public benefit. Charitable institutions can be run publicly or privately.

Generally, the funds derived by the organization are gifted to lesser privileged communities to ensure that it will help advance the cause they are advocating for.

Types of Charities in the Philippines

Not all charities are the same. Because there are so many types of charities, it can be challenging to classify them.

Here are the types of charities in the country based on the sectors they are supporting.

Education

Education charities help the less fortunate students to finish their studies. Most of these charities donate to students regardless of age, educational track, or school.

A lot of charities like this have set up their scholarship programs and schools where they can support students.

Aside from scholarship programs, they also give financial aid, as well as the provision of learning materials.

Health

This is one of the most popular kinds of charities and there is a huge variety of organizations that fall under this category.

Generally, charity groups like this provide help to people with physical disabilities or those who are sick.

This covers providing money for medical research, paying hospital bills, and promoting health awareness.

Environment

Environment charities are crucial today. It helps to promote and further the causes that are related to environmental preservation, development, nature protection and conservation, and sustenance.

There are also charities that advocate for the use of green energy sources.

Animal

Animal charities protect, support, and conserve animals and wildlife.

This covers many types of charities such as pet and animal welfare organizations, and wildlife conservation organizations, among many others.

Arts and culture

If you are an avid fan of the arts, you can contribute to this type of charity. Arts and culture charities raise funds for the protection and preservation of cultural heritage and art.

This includes historical societies, museums, and art galleries, among many others.

Community development

There are always communities that need help. Community development charities help areas that struggle more than others.

Their function usually lies in supporting and revitalizing communities through affordable housing, and livelihood programs, among many others.

Human services

This is another huge category that covers a lot of charities.

The usual groups that fall under this category include food banks, food pantries, homeless services, youth development centers, crisis services, free legal services, and social services among many others.

International NGOs

Not all charities in the Philippines started here. There are a lot of top charities across the world that have their offices in the country as a part of their global initiative.

These organizations usually overlap with the other types of NGOs and charities mentioned above.

Private Foundations vs. Public Charitable Institutions

A private foundation is created by a single benefactor that is usually a business or individual. Using an initial seed donation also called an endowment, an investment is made so it can make income.

Funds to give relief can also be gotten from families, individuals, corporations, and other financial sources.

Then, these funds are dispersed in the form of grants to other charities or individuals that are covered by the foundation’s purpose.

The endowment structure of private foundations makes way for a stable, consistent, and reliable source of funds.

This is crucial because it can help make budgeting and funding decisions with more confidence. It also ensures efficient and timely access to it.

On the other hand, public charities refer to the solicitation of regular donations from donors, the government, or private organizations.

This charity uses collected funds to support initiatives. It is normal for charities to appeal to public sentiment so they can gather more funds.

Non-Government Organizations vs. Non-Profit Organizations

A non-government organization operates free from any government influence. Although it is independent, it can still receive funds from the government, but it operates without representation or oversight from it.

Based on its name, a nonprofit organization is a group that is not organized to generate profit. No part of their income will be distributed to their officers, members, or directors.

The major difference between the two is the work they assume. Although they both work for the benefit of society, NGOs have a broader footprint, whereas NPOs are usually affiliated with the following:

alumni associations
churches
boys and girls clubs

What are the different activities that Charitable Organizations do?

Here are the different kinds of activities charitable organizations can do.

Fundraising

Fundraising covers initiatives that ask for cash, gifts in kind, and other donations. It also includes soliciting donations and holding events such as runs, auctions, dinners, and many more to raise money for a cause.

Organizations that do fundraising activities must clearly list how they will use the funds, and how they intend on receiving them.

Business

Many charitable organizations and public foundations are not permitted to carry on any unrelated businesses.

However, they can carry on related ones. Business activities are a revenue-generating activity that is carried out related to the purpose of the charity.

If a charitable organization earns income from services or goods on an ongoing basis, these activities should be described in detail.

Political

Many charitable organizations advocate for changes to policy, law, or any decision of the government that would help its purpose. The goal of political activities is to help a specific charitable purpose.

Aside from the activities mentioned above, charitable organizations can also hold activities that include the creation of monuments, public buildings, and many more.

These are done through the help of donations that a charitable organization receives. NGOs and NPOs can also hold activities to combat the deterioration of any community, as well as hold any type of social service that will help the less fortunate.

Top Charitable Institutions in the Philippines

Here are some charitable institutions in the country where you can extend a helping hand.

UNICEF Philippines

This is an agency of the United Nations that aims to serve children.

UNICEF Philippines implements different programs that cover nutrition, education, disaster risk reduction and emergencies, child protection, communication, HIV and AIDS prevention, and institutional development.

How to donate

You can donate here, or buy cards and gifts that are available in the following establishments:

Dash in Eastwood Mall
Hobbes & Landes in Alabang Town Center, Bonifacio High Street, Greenbelt 5, Greenhills, Podium, Rockwell, Shangri-la Mall, SM Mall of Asia, and Trinoma
Rustan’s in Alabang Town Center, Makati, and Shangri-la Mall

*among many others

World Vision Philippines

This is the Philippine arm of World Vision, which is the largest international children’s charity in the world.

World Vision Philippines has been present in the country for close to six decades and they aim to bring hope to thousands of children in rural and urban poor areas.

How to donate

Donate here
Sponsor a child here

Dream Big Pilipinas

Dream Big Pilipinas uses a multipronged approach to keep underprivileged kids off the streets. One of the major initiatives of this organization is to teach young girls and boys literacy.

It also helps to fight child labor as well as raise funds for scholarships. Dream Big Pilipinas also teaches kids football to instill a sense of discipline and purpose in them.

How to donate:

Contact their Facebook page for more information

GreenEarth Heritage Foundation

GreenEarth Heritage Foundation is a Christian humanitarian organization that addresses the holistic needs of underprivileged communities.

It covers a wide array of initiatives for social change such as sustainable livelihood in organic farming, educational initiatives, reforestation programs, and many more.

By buying GreenEarth products such as moringa tea and powder, you can help their initiative.

These products are loaded with 40 different types of antioxidants and over 19 nutrients that can boost your immune system and support farmers.

How to donate:

Buy their products here

CARA

Compassion and Responsibility for Animals or CARA is an animal welfare organization that was founded in 2000.

It is one of the most popular animal shelters in the country and it is known for its programs including spaying and neutering, and adoption services.

One of the most notable initiatives of this organization is the “Save the Laguna Pit Bulls.” These dogs are saved from dog-fighting syndicates, rehabilitated, and sent into a loving home.

How to donate:

Donate here

Liter of Light by MyShelter Foundation

This foundation takes sustainable building solutions into local communities, specifically people who are vulnerable and in need of low-cost infrastructures.

Liter of Light or Isang Litrong Liwanag is a great program that uses plastic bottles which are recycled into solar bulbs.

Every bulb functions like a traditional 55-watt bulb, and it provides lights for Filipino families that are unable to afford electricity. This light is also carbon-free and can save roughly 64 kg of carbon waste annually.

How to donate:

Contact them here
Volunteer here

Haribon Foundation

This foundation supports the conservation of natural resources. It is committed to nature conservation through scientific excellence and community empowerment.

How to donate:

Love Yourself

Love yourself is a community of volunteers that provide HIV testing, treatment, counseling, and life coaching in the country. All services are free.

How to donate:

Donate here
Become a sponsor here
Become a partner here

Mental Health PH

This organization has been championing and building mentally healthier communities in the country since 2016.

They hope to raise awareness about mental health to empower communities to support themselves. They also collaborate with different sectors towards sustainable solutions.

How to donate:

Donate here

Water for Waves Philippines

Water for Waves helps to give communities access to clean water through borehole wells, and portable water filter systems.

They also help construct rainwater harvesting and storing systems in places where there is no accessible groundwater.

How to donate:

Donate here
Shop here

Nature of Kids Siargao

This is a grassroots initiative that supports kids in Siargao to have basic needs such as clothing, shelter, and food.

This way, they can attend school and learn how to become stewards of nature. This organization also runs different projects that create jobs in the island.

How to donate:

Contact them here

Lokal Lab Siargao

This is another NGO based in Siargao that collaborates and supports local communities through different sustainable projects.

The goal of Lokal Lab is to create equal access to sustainable opportunities and lifestyles. This organization stepped up when Siargao and its neighboring islands were hit by typhoon Odette recently.

How to donate:

Donate here

Project CURMA

Project CURMA stands for Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions. This organization based in La Union has released thousands of turtle hatchlings.

It also partners with the local government to provide funding for cleanup activities, and beach patrols. They also push for initiatives that make La Union safer for sea turtles.

How to donate:

Contact them for volunteering opportunities here
Donate here

Where to Donate Old Clothes in the Philippines

Are your clothes starting to pile up? If so, maybe it’s time to donate some of them. Here’s where you can donate your old clothes in Metro Manila.

Segunda Mana

This is a non-profit organization that is under Caritas Manila. It aids less fortunate communities through the donation of clothes, appliances, furniture, and many more.

Email: donorcare@caritasmanila.org.ph
Location: 2002 Jesus St., Pandacan Manila

Uniqlo Stores

Did you know that Uniqlo stores around the world accept old clothing as a donation? The donations are given to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, as well as other NGOs.

Location: all Uniqlo stores in the Philippines

I Support The Girls MNL

If you have used bras or other feminine care products like pads and tampons that you want to donate, head over to I Support The Girls MNL.

These donations are given to women in underprivileged communities in Metro Manila who do not have access to these products.

Email: istg.mnl@gmail.com
Location: 394 Shaw Boulevard, Brgy Pleasant Hills, Mandaluyong City

Philippine Red Cross

Aside from doing regular blood drives, this organization also accepts used beddings, clothes, canned goods, and other necessities as a form of donation.

These are given to people who have been affected by natural calamities and disasters.

Email: fundgeneration@redcross.org.ph
Contact number: (02) 527 0000
Location: Lourdes 1, 661 Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City

Where to Donate Food in the Philippines

Here’s where you can donate food such as canned goods. This list also includes food charities where you can donate monetary assistance.

Good Food Grocer

This is the first food bank social franchise in the country.

Launched by Rise Against Hunger Philippines, it aims to sell donated nutritious food at low prices, run a soup kitchen that cooks food daily, implement livelihood programs, establish community gardens, and distribute food that cannot be sold.

Location: Tomasa Ave, Taguig, Metro Manila
Email: jfleras@riseagainsthunger.org.ph

Action Against Hunger Ph

This organization partners with restaurants such as TGI Friday’s, and they also boast an intersectional approach to eradicating hunger in the Philippines.

Location: 109 Aguirre, Legazpi Village, Makati, 1229 Kalakhang Maynila
Email: events@ph.acfspain.org

Philippine Food Bank Foundation

This project has more than 120 beneficiaries in Metro Manila and its surrounding provinces, as well as vulnerable communities in Indonesia, Myanmar, and other countries.

This organization also partners regularly with restaurants such as Krispy Kreme and Starbucks.

Contact them through their website

Where to Donate Books in the Philippines

Tidying up your space and letting go of books? One of the best ways to get rid of old books you used to love is to donate them in these organizations and initiatives.

Books for a Cause

This advocacy seeks to provide knowledge to Filipinos and increase literacy through learning. They accept pre-loved or new books in good condition.

Send books to: c/o Ramil / Rodel Sumangil, Brgy. Baloy, Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, 3117 Philippines
Contact number: 0929-808-2664
Email: booksforacause@yahoo.com

Reading Club 2000

Reading Club 2000 is a two-story house that serves as a community reading center. It is open 24/7. It also sends books to schools and underprivileged communities.

Location: 1454 Balagtas St., Brgy. La Paz, Makati City
Contact number: 0935-153-3031
Email: readingclub2000@yahoo.com

National Library of the Philippines

The National Library of the Philippines accepts donations that are intended for Philippine Public Libraries.

Email: cdd@nlp.gov.ph
Contact number: (632) 5310-5035 and (632) 5336-7200

Where to Donate Hair & Blood in the Philippines

Before you donate hair and blood, read the terms and conditions of organizations to ensure you meet their requirements. For example, many hair donation centers have a minimum length required.

Philippine Red Cross

Philippine Red Cross regularly holds blood donation drives. You can donate blood every three months.

Location: National Blood Center in PRC Tower, 37 EDSA corner Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City
Contact numbers: (02) 790-2300; (02) 790-2382; (02) 790-2383
Other locations available here

Hair for Hope

Give your locks a chance to make cancer patients smile by donating the here. Donated hair must be at least 9 inches long. Chemically-treated hair will not be accepted.

Send donations to: c/o The European Hair Factory, Block 1, Lot 9, Southpoint Subdivision, Brgy. Banay Banay Cabuyao, Laguna
Contact number: 0917 586 0145
Email: hairforhope.heads@gmail.com

Strand Up for Cancer

This is a project by MDYMCA Youth Club that helps women suffering from hair loss due to chemotherapy.

Location: 945 Sabino Padilla St. Binondo, Philippines
Email: info.mdymcayc@gmail.com

Kythe-Ateneo

Kythe-Ateneo’s Hair2Share program collects hair donations that will be used for medical wigs. The organization also has a project called Wigs2Give initiative to distribute medical wigs for free. Read more about their requirements here.

Send donations to: c/o Ms. Beth Holgado, G/F Unit 133 Shangri-La Hotel Makati, Ayala Avenue, Ayala Center, Makati City
Contact number: 0917 586 0145

Where to Volunteer in the Philippines

Have some free time on your hands? Why not try volunteering? This rewarding experience is one of the best things you can do for your community.

iVolunteer

This project can connect you to organizations that seek volunteers.

Register here
Email: contactus@ivolunteer.com.ph

Gawad Kalinga

You can volunteer in Gawad Kalinga if you want to help implement projects that aim to end poverty in the country.

Volunteer here
Email: info@gawadkalinga.com

Uhappy Events

This is another organization that connects volunteers and sponsors to various beneficiaries. Their goal is to assist marginalized children through events such as acting workshops, dance workshops, and arts and crafts workshops.

Volunteer here
Location: 2610 Raffles Corporate Center, Pasig City, Philippines 1605
Email: shoutout@uhappyevents.com
Contact number: +63 917 548 8080

Where to Donate Money in the Philippines

Don’t have time to volunteer? Thankfully, technology has made donating easier. You can send money to organizations in just a few clicks in these apps.

GCash

GForest is a feature in the GCash app that allows you to rebuild Philippine forests. As of January 2022, GCash users have planted over 1 million virtual trees.

Just log in to your GCash app, click GForest, and select “I want to help.” Finally, you can start collecting green energy and use it to plant trees.

GCash also enables its users to send donations to support their #FightCOVID19 campaign. Just click the “Pay Bills” icon, select “others,” and click “FIghtCOVID19.”

Coins.Ph

Coins.Ph has partnered with more than 20 charities in the country including Gawad Kalinga, Children’s Hour, and many more. It only takes a few seconds to donate using your app.

PayMaya

PayMaya’s #OneAgainstCovid19 campaign aids causes and organizations that help combat the effects of the pandemic.

Some of the organizations and causes supported by this platform include ABS-CBN Foundation, Philippine Red Cross, and Save the Children Philippines, among many others.

You can visit the PayMaya website to donate. You can also head over to your PayMaya app “Bills Page,” and click the “Donations” tile to contribute any amount of money.

For donation concerns, message donation@paymaya.com

Donating to Animal Shelters in the Philippines

Are you an animal lover? If so, you can donate to nonprofit organizations that help animals.

Most NGOs assist rescued animals in shelters to ensure that they stay healthy and nourished. Here are some of our favorite animal shelters.

Pawssion Project

Pawssion project first started in Bacolod. After receiving tons of support from kind-hearted individuals, it opened a second shelter in Bulacan.

Now, there have rescued more than 1,000 animals that have suffered from injury, neglect, abuse, and abandonment.

Donate here
Volunteer here
Contact number: 0977 821 0271

Hound Haven Philippines

This is a non-profit organization that advocates for Contract Working Dogs or CWDs and Military Working Dogs or MWDs. They match these retired army dogs with new loving families.

Email: houndhavenph@gmail.com
Donate here
Adopt here
Become a dog godparent here
Lend a paw here

Animal Kingdom Foundation

Animal Kingdom Foundation is perfect for those who have a heart for animals. They have tons of initiatives that create a better future for rescued animals.

Contact number: 0939 914 2405
Donate here
Adopt here
Email: akfanimalrescue@gmail.com

Why Donate to Charity?

When you donate to the charities you believe in, it does not just benefit them. It can also be immensely rewarding for you.

But what makes donating to charities so rewarding? Here’s a look at some of the reasons to donate.

It makes you feel good

Did you know that donating to your chosen charity can boost your mood? Knowing that you are helping others is such an empowering feeling.

In turn, this will make you feel more fulfilled. Research has even proven that donating provides a sense of enjoyment for people.

You can help others

The world is not perfect, but if you have shelter, food, clothing, and necessities, you are considered privileged.

Although you are facing issues yourself, there are still people out there who need your help. The reality is that when you donate to the causes you care about, you can empower other people who need your help.

It can improve your values

Many people donate because they feel like they have a moral obligation to help others. This feeling is rooted in your principles and values.

When you have the power and opportunity to help other people, you will feel that you need to act on this responsibility.

In the end, this will reinforce your values and make you feel like you are living life fully and staying true to your beliefs.

It sets a good example

Nowadays, everyone can be a role model. Donating to the charity of your choice will familiarize others around you with the practice.

It also fosters the spirit of empathy and generosity. In time, your kids, family, and friends will be more motivated to help causes that are dear to them.

It improves your financial management skills

If you donate a certain amount of money to a charity each month, this can make you more attentive to your finances to ensure that you don’t fall behind on helping your favorite charities.

It’s a great way to show gratitude

Your busy schedule can get in the way of the most important things in life such as showing gratitude for everything that you’ve been blessed with.

When you give to charities, this will serve as a reminder of the blessings in your life.

The simple act of donating is also an incredible way to express gratitude. It’s also a great way to give back to the community.

7 Other Ways to Give to Charities

Giving financial donations is not the only way to help your favorite charitable organization. There are a lot of ways you can make a difference that will not affect your financial standing.

This is perfect for people who are still working towards financial stability.

Leverage social media

Nowadays, you can keep up with your favorite nonprofit organizations through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms.

You can use your influence on the internet to share posts from your favorite NGOs. This can help them broaden their reach.

Use your skills

Chances are, your favorite charity is looking for a helping hand. If you have special skills such as photography, graphic design, or writing, you can offer your services for free.

This way, charities can save money on hiring professionals.

Raise funds

Is your birthday coming up? Instead of asking your friends and family for gifts, why not try asking for monetary help for the benefit of your favorite NGO.

Set up a crowdfunding page and use your network to raise some funds.

Give away items

Another way to give to charity without spending money is to donate secondhand items. Trying to sort through your things and see which of your stuff doesn’t serve you anymore.

This can be clothes, toys, furniture, appliances, books, and many more. If you want to take the extra mile, ask your friends to do the same.

Write to local politicians

Writing to an elected politician is an amazing way to help your favorite charity. These people have the power to lobby policies that will benefit the cause you believe in.

Volunteer

Another awesome way to help your favorite nonprofit organization is through volunteering. A little research goes a long way.

Check out various NGOs’ Facebook or website, or message them about how you can help. A lot of charities are constantly looking for event volunteers, office help, and mentors.

Donate blood

If you can’t give away money, you can consider donating to a blood bank in your area. A single blood donation can save up to three lives.

Sacrificing an hour of your time and experiencing minimal discomfort can make a big impact on the lives of others.

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