International Day of Charity 2027 is on Sunday

About International Day of Charity

The International Day of Charity asks individuals, nonprofits, businesses and governments to think about how voluntary giving of money, time and skills can reduce suffering and support communities. The UN frames charity as an expression of solidarity that works alongside public services and international aid, and connects it to the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular the goal of ending poverty in all its forms.

The General Assembly designated the day in resolution 67/105, adopted on December 17, 2012. The resolution recognizes the role of charity in relieving humanitarian crises and human suffering, says charity can promote dialogue and understanding between cultures and religions, and invites governments, UN bodies, civil society and individuals to mark the day through education and awareness activities.

The date was chosen to recall the death of Mother Teresa on September 5, 1997, at the age of 87. Born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu in 1910, she went to India in 1928, became an Indian citizen in 1948 and founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1950. The order became known for its care of the poor, the sick and the dying and later expanded to other countries. She received the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize for her work to overcome poverty and distress.

The UN uses the day to highlight how giving is changing, including online and mobile donations, crowdfunding, youth-led social ventures, and a growing focus on transparency and on letting communities lead the projects meant to help them.

Sources: United Nations: International Day of Charity, General Assembly resolution 67/105 (2012). How we check dates.

How to mark International Day of Charity

• Choose one cause you care about and set up a small recurring donation instead of a one-time gift.
• Before giving, check that a charity is registered and look at its published financial reports through your country's charity regulator or registry.
• Volunteer a few hours at a food bank, shelter or community kitchen, or offer a professional skill to a local nonprofit.
• Donate usable clothing, books or household goods to a group that distributes them to people in need.
• Organize a collection at work, school or your place of worship and agree together on where the money goes.
• Learn about the life and work of Mother Teresa and other figures known for service to the poor.

International Day of Charity dates