Before you hand over a dime of the money that you earned, you need to know which health care charities are the most reputable. These charities support those who have medical needs such as veterans who need care after coming home from service and children who cannot afford health insurance. You can find out more about what those charities do and how they use donations before making a donation of your own.
Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation
One of the most reputable medical charities is the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation. This charity spends a small amount of money to earn every $100 and puts a large percentage of its donations towards research into diabetes as well as the education of those diagnosed with the disease. The foundation also spends a larger percentage of its money on its programs than it does on its overhead costs, including the salaries of employees and utility bills.
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
According to Consumer Reports, one of the highest rated health charities in the world today is the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Michael J. Fox is an actor best known for his roles on television and films like “Teen Wolf” and “Family Ties.” While starring on the hit show “Spin City,” Fox retired from acting after learning he had Parkinson’s and started this charity. The foundation raises money to find a cure for Parkinson’s, which is a disease that causes nerve problems and uncontrolled tremors. Fox raised millions for research since starting his charity.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is one of the leading mental health charities in operation. This nonprofit raises money to research some of the leading causes of suicide and some of the treatments and methods that can reduce suicide. The foundation also works with the federal government as well as state governments to create new programs to provide those thinking about suicide with resources. It also expanded its scope to include support and care for those who lost a loved one to suicide and might take their own lives.
National Psoriasis Foundation
Consumer Reports also included the National Psoriasis Foundation on its list of the top health care charities because it spends less money on overhead and operating costs. These costs refer to any of the expenses associated with running the charity. Some charities spend more money on their overhead costs than they do on helping others, but the National Psoriasis Foundation has a strong reputation for using more of its money on its programs than on its costs. Its programs help raise money to do research on the causes behind psoriasis as well as new treatments for the condition.
SOS Children’s Villages
One of the top kids’ charities to donate to is SOS Children’s Villages. This charity raises money to provide orphaned and abandoned children with homes and helped kids in more than 130 countries since opening. The organization now has a branch in Africa that provides help and support for children diagnosed with HIV and AIDS. Not only does the money raised go towards housing those kids, but it also allows those children to get the medical care that they need. Kids staying in these villages also get emotional support from adults who live on-site.
Some charities and nonprofit organizations spend money on employee salaries and throwing special events, which leaves less money available for health care. The top health care charities spend less money on overhead costs and more money on finding a cure and treating those with serious medical conditions.