1. Compassion

There are many things you can do to help poor and needy people but compassion is by far one of the best. Treat people that are in need with respect, just because they need help does not mean you are a better person. The key to getting good at being compassionate is listening. Empty the chatter in your brain and focus on the person you’re trying to help.

People, myself included, want to feel important, its one of our strongest assets as well as a painful weakness. If you can make people feel important you’ll be able to help more people than you could ever dream of. Jesus said, “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)

2. Get Social

Sites like Facebook and Twitter have become huge outlets in helping poor and needy people. Anyone has the ability to raise awareness or participate in charities. Third party crowd funding sites also work with social media to maximum funding potential for charitable projects.

3. Give, Give, Give

James described the worthlessness of good intentions without tangible help.

“If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about there physical needs, what good is it?” (James 2:17)

Its important, especially as believers, that we help those in financial need. You don’t have to save the world with millions, start with $5 or $10 to someone you know could use it.

4. Fundraisers

Bake sales or church dinners have always been great ideas to my knowledge. They’re simple and easy to do and can turn a great profit for any sort of cause. Start baking!

5. Canned Goods

If you cannot give money, give what you’re able to. There are lots of people that don’t care about money, they only want it because they’re hungry.

6. Collection Drives

Look for organizations designed to collect specific items (like cans) or many other categories that poor and needy people can use. Often times the bare essentials we take for granted are wanted. Homeless people say they often need socks because charities get lots of other things except for socks.

7. Team Up

Volunteer in your community. There are many groups aimed at helping the poor and needy. Put your time in and make an impact.

8. Good Will

Give your personal effects that you can or no longer want to use. Remember the old saying; one mans trash is another mans treasure. Don’t forget it, there’s always someone who has less than you.

9. Educate Yourself

Learn more about people in need to help in a more effective way, specifically in your local area.

10. Educate Them

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” (Chinese Proverb)

God bless.