Helping those affected by disaster
As disasters become more prevalent, you may be thinking about how you can help. In times of crisis, Fidelity Charitable donors play an essential role in relief and recovery. The resources below are designed to help you support disaster aid in an impactful and informed way.
If you are looking for guidance on a disaster or crisis not specifically covered on this page, here are some additional resources to help you support aid and recovery efforts that interest you:
Effective disaster support
Disaster support shouldn't happen only in the immediate aftermath of a crisis. Keep these four best practices in mind to be an effective disaster donor even in non-disaster times.
When disaster strikes
1. Give unrestricted funding
When activating on a crisis, organizations have the most flexibility to respond with unrestricted dollars. Remember that giving money is likely more useful than donating goods, and it gives nonprofits the ability to use resources as needed in rapidly changing situations.
2. Give multi-year funding
Recovery from a disaster takes years, and needs change throughout the course of recovery. Keep in mind that needs continue long after a disaster has retreated from the headlines.
Providing ongoing support
3. Consider support beyond a donation
Nonprofits are always looking for volunteers, but the aftermath of a disaster is not the time to approach them. Contact nonprofits when they have the time and capacity to offer the training you’ll need to help.
4. Fund operating costs and capacity building
Effectively running any organization requires the right technology, training, networking, and staff support. Capacity building is rarely funded and critically important.
Other disaster guidance
About Fidelity Charitable
Who we are
Fidelity Charitable is an independent public charity that offers the nation's largest donor-advised fund program, making charitable giving accessible, simple, and effective.
More insights into giving
What defined giving nationally last year? The 2025 Fidelity Charitable Giving Report highlights some of the important themes that emerged around charitable support.
How Fidelity Charitable can help
Since 1991, we have been a leader in charitable planning and giving solutions, helping donors like you support their favorite charities in smart ways.
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