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How do I decide what to give?

Laura Malcolm avatar
Written by Laura Malcolm
Updated this week

When someone you care about is going through a major life event and needs support, it can be very hard trying to decide how to help. You want to do something or give something that will make things a little easier. 

Give InKind was designed to make the process of giving support easier for you and the recipient. The Give InKind page has several features that may help you choose just the right thing for your friend or family member.

  • The Story - This is where the page tells you the story of the Recipient - what they are currently experiencing, how it has effected their lives, and the kind of help they need. You can also find out specifics like their phone call and visitation preferences. The Page Organizer can also use this space to provide updates on the Recipient's circumstances.

  • The Wishlist - The Wishlist is is a collection of gift cards, products, and services that you can purchase for the Recipient. It's built by the Page Organizer based on the Recipient's specific needs. All of the items on a Wishlist are pulled from the Give InKind Marketplace of approved vendors. You can explore the list, learn more about products, and make your purchase.

  • The Care Calendar - Most people will have special support needs on specific days and times. The Calendar offers opportunities for you to sign-up to provide hands on support like babysitting, meal delivery, errand running, cleaning, rides to appointments, etc. After you sign-up for a support request, you can decide if you want to provide the service yourself or pay for a service.

  • Crowdfunding campaign links - The Recipient may need financial support more than anything. If there is a GoFundMe, CashApp, PayPal, or Venmo campaign or account for the Recipient, the page may have links to those sites (displayed on the right side of the page) Note: While Give InKind receives no fees for donations made to crowdfunding campaigns, we do not control any fees charged by those sites. We encourage you to check the sites for their fees before making a donation.

  • The Blog - Even when you know what your friend or family member is going through, you may still be unsure what yo give or how to help. The Give InKind blog can provide advice and insight into all types of life situations. The articles can give you some perspective and inspire some ideas for gifts and other support you can provide. You can easily access articles by clicking on Support > Support Guides on the menu at the top of the homepage. 

Give InKind is always working on ways to help giving easier for you. If you have any questions or suggestions, contact us at [email protected]. 

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