Why Give?

Why Give to the ELCA?

 
There are countless charities you can donate your hard-earned money to – so why give to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America? Well, there are lots of reasons!

Here are a few:

Money reaches people

Your money reaches more people.
As part of its mission, the ELCA supports social ministry organizations that provide service to 6 million people in 3,000 communities. That means that your donation goes to help 1 out of 50 people in the United States and the Caribbean every year – and millions more throughout the world.
 

Responding in need

In times of great need, we respond quickly and comprehensively.
The ELCA works directly with people in thousands of congregations already – so when crises occur, we have the infrastructure and networks in place to act quickly and to stay in areas of need for the long haul.


Accomplish more in mission

Together in mission, Lutherans accomplish more.
The ELCA works directly with thousands of partner agencies and churches all over the world. By working together, we reduce duplication of effort, gain greater direct access to people in need, and build a stronger, more effective ministry. To learn more about our partnerships around the world, visit ELCA Global Mission.

Beyond basic necessities

Your donation goes beyond the basic necessities.
While government agencies and other secular charities help people in amazing ways, church-funded assistance often goes a step further. We offer more than just the essential needs like food and shelter – we provide ongoing education, pastoral care, counseling and support to people who need it most.


But why give at all?
Most Christians – in fact, most people – have experienced the true joy of generosity at some point in their lives. By giving, we are modeling ourselves after our loving God, whose abundant, generous giving fills our lives.

God calls each of us to reach out and help others – to use our hands to do God’s work. The ELCA is a community of believers that works with partners worldwide to share God’s boundless love with others.

Giving is at the heart of who God is. Giving is at the heart of who God’s people are. Through our giving, God is able to make a difference for good in our world.