Giving Contiues During Economic Downturn

Giving Continues During Economic Downturn

The results of a new study show that, while most Americans plan to spend less on Christmas presents this year, almost half are now more likely to give to charitable organizations.

A World Vision survey, which was conducted by Harris Interactive, reveals that seven in ten adults (71%) will spend less on Christmas gifts this year, but almost half (49%) said they are now more likely to give to a charity. The study also shows that only 36 percent of U.S. adults say they really need anything as a Christmas gift, while 57 percent say that they still want something. Four in five adults (84%) say they would rather receive a gift that was helpful to others than a personal traditional gift, such as clothing or electronics.

A recent study by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University reports that total charitable giving has increased in 39 of the last 40 years — even during times of recession. Americans donate about $295 billion to charity each year, with about a third — $97 billion — going to religious organizations. On average, Christians give 2.5 percent of their income to churches. [christianpost.com, chicagotribune.com]