By 
By Kristin Wiggins
The year-end season is a powerful time for giving. For families struggling to make ends meet, every act of generosity makes a meaningful difference. Your support strengthens our community and provides real, tangible relief to those in need.
That’s why this time of year brings so many appeals from nonprofits and community organizations asking for support. Year-end giving helps countless nonprofits, including my organization, the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, meet the increased need we see every winter.
This year, that need is even greater, as federal funding cuts and a government shutdown further strain essential safety-net services, leaving nonprofits to fill widening gaps for families who depend on them.
It’s more important than ever that donors know their money is going to the right organizations, so they can ensure it reaches those who need it most. Here are a few ways to give meaningfully this season.
Transparency
Reputable nonprofits are open about their mission, leadership and finances—and proud to show where donations go. Before giving, take a few minutes to explore an organization’s website for its annual report, impact data or financials. You can also look them up on GuideStar or Charity Navigator, which provide detailed information about transparency, accountability and performance. If something feels unclear or overpromised, trust your instincts and ask questions. Good organizations value informed donors who want to give responsibly.
Impact
Every nonprofit has a mission, but the most effective ones can show measurable outcomes, such as how many families are served, how programs are evaluated and what progress is being made over time. Look for stories, data or updates that demonstrate real impact.
Values in Action
Generosity is a joyful expression of our deepest values. It’s how we use our resources—time, talent and treasure—to strengthen communities, uphold what we believe in, and make the world a better place for all. Choose organizations whose work reflects your passions, whether that’s supporting those in need, investing in education, protecting the environment or helping veterans.
Community Connection
Consider keeping your giving close to home. Local or regional nonprofits often make the most visible difference by helping your neighbors in need. Supporting local organizations strengthens San Diego County as a whole and ensures that help reaches those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
The San Diego Food Bank is the largest independent hunger-relief organization in San Diego County, providing a vital food safety net for people in need with the help of a robust network of more than 450 local partners. Last fiscal year, we distributed nearly 53 million pounds of food and supplies across the region.
As a Platinum-level GuideStar participant and four-star Charity Navigator organization, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, ensuring that $0.94 of every dollar donated is spent directly on programs that serve our community.
Kristin Wiggins is Vice President of Philanthropy at the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank.
Impact
Every nonprofit has a mission, but the most effective ones can show measurable outcomes, such as how many families are served, how programs are evaluated and what progress is being made over time. Look for stories, data or updates that demonstrate real impact.
Values in Action
Generosity is a joyful expression of our deepest values. It’s how we use our resources—time, talent and treasure—to strengthen communities, uphold what we believe in, and make the world a better place for all. Choose organizations whose work reflects your passions, whether that’s supporting those in need, investing in education, protecting the environment or helping veterans.
Community Connection
Consider keeping your giving close to home. Local or regional nonprofits often make the most visible difference by helping your neighbors in need. Supporting local organizations strengthens San Diego County as a whole and ensures that help reaches those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
The San Diego Food Bank is the largest independent hunger-relief organization in San Diego County, providing a vital food safety net for people in need with the help of a robust network of more than 450 local partners. Last fiscal year, we distributed nearly 53 million pounds of food and supplies across the region.
As a Platinum-level GuideStar participant and four-star Charity Navigator organization, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, ensuring that $0.94 of every dollar donated is spent directly on programs that serve our community.
Kristin Wiggins is Vice President of Philanthropy at the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank.
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