Occasionally, there’s a knock at our door, and we’re greeted by someone requesting a charitable donation. The amount is discretionary, usually with a modest minimum. The solicitor often appears to be someone who might directly benefit from the charity they represent.
However, I perceive this as ‘money for nothing.’ Research indicates that people feel a sense of generosity and self-satisfaction when they donate in such scenarios, whether at their doorstep, office, or through anonymous contributions. Yet, I view this as a fleeting sentiment that, in the long run, perpetuates societal injustices and mismanagement.
The dilemma recurs with each knock at the door, both for the donor and the next person seeking help. Charity, in this form, seems insufficient in fostering real change.
A critical element missing from this model of charity, I believe, is self-respect. When individuals rely entirely on others for basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing, their self-perception shifts. They start to view themselves as dependent and incapable, which, over time, can lead to feelings of worthlessness.
Even those who have never experienced poverty might relate to this through job loss or a partner’s unemployment. The erosion of self-worth in such situations can be crippling. For instance, a high-ranking executive who’s laid off late in their career might find it challenging to secure another job, leading to extreme despair, sometimes even to the point of suicide. The humiliation of queuing for social security is profound for anyone accustomed to being gainfully employed.
The concept of ‘money for nothing’ can instill a sense of worthlessness in recipients.
This phenomenon is evident in the experiences of Native Americans and Indigenous Australians. Both groups were allocated autonomies in parts of their countries, often not of their choosing, and received government subsidies as supposed compensation for the loss of their lands. In many instances, those who relied solely on these subsidies resorted to alcohol, while those who pursued employment fared better.
There seems to be an inherent desire for fairness in human exchanges, and receiving money without giving something in return doesn’t align with this principle.
A distressing example of this imbalance is seen in India, where some children are deliberately maimed to become more effective beggars. The rationale behind such cruelty is that these children, despite their disabilities, can earn enough to survive and support their families. However, this practice also robs them of the opportunity to work and be self-reliant as adults.
In contrast, during our time in Thailand, the streets were devoid of beggars. Instead, we encountered individuals seated in corners, on footbridges, and nestled between market stalls, selling small trinkets and flowers. We often knew we didn’t need what they were selling, but there was a sense of dignity in these transactions, marked by smiles and a glimmer of hope.
Considering all this, Ronit and I chose to support the world’s impoverished through Kiva, an online microfinance platform. Kiva funds small-scale projects worldwide, pooling resources from various donors. Each project is a loan, not a donation, ensuring that the ventures are viable and capable of repayment with interest.
We believe Kiva helps prevent dependency, encouraging responsibility and contributing to a productive, supportive global and local society. Since many of the beneficiaries lack computer access and business acumen, micro-banks represent them, submitting funding requests for groups of farmers, producers, or service providers, and providing essential business training. These groups also ensure accountability and repayment.
For instance, our first loan supported fifteen Paraguayan women (pictured earlier) striving to offer their children a better future. They are hardworking individuals who stretch their limits to provide the basics for a dignified life. The loan enabled them to purchase sewing supplies.
Our second loan assisted a Kenyan farmer (also pictured) responsible for two children. His goal was to achieve food security for his family. With the loan, he could buy seeds and fertilizers, significantly increasing his maize yield.
When we joined Kiva, it was a family decision, aimed at educating our children about the struggles of others and fostering gratitude for their own lives. We wanted them to understand the difference between productivity and dependency.
Addressing potential skepticism about the capacity of some to work, I’d like to highlight the Endeavour Foundation. This organization supports individuals with mental and physical disabilities. While reliant on donations and government aid, it also employs its clients in workshops, enabling them to contribute to their upkeep. They may not be fully self-sufficient, but they maintain their dignity through participation.
In today’s world, many believe that children have it easy. While our kids might not face the hardships we did, it’s crucial to avoid creating a charity-like dynamic at home. This could lead to a dependent identity, stripping them of self-reliance and dignity.
A child’s involvement in household chores and family decisions, no matter how small, is vital for their self-esteem and independence. It’s not just about the value they add, especially when they’re young. Avoid giving them ‘money for nothing.’ Encourage them to earn their privileges, involve them in charitable activities, share your work experiences with them, and guide them towards self-care and building a strong sense of self.
Empowering the world begins with supporting those who are willing to help themselves, one step at a time.
