Today’s Solutions: February 05, 2026

You don’t need to be a billionaire philanthropist to make donations that matter. Even if you’re on a budget, there are some clever ways you can give to good causes—even if it’s a small amount of money. Here are five affordable ways to be a philanthropist.

Rethink your rewards

These days most stores have some sort of rewards program, and, let’s be honest, they are really designed to get you to spend more. However, that doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing, especially if we can use those rewards for some good. When you cash in those points, commit to putting the amount you saved toward a charity or a good cause.

Round up at the register

Anytime you are at the store and are asked to “round up” or donate for a cause, say yes to the “roundup” or commit to donating $1 to $5. This simple action can have an incredibly positive impact on your money mindset and gets you in the practice of giving with ease.

Gift the free gift

Odds are, you’ve purchased something because the bonus gift was too good to pass up. (You know, those 3-for-1 deals?) Usually, in those moments, we are purchasing more than we actually need in order to hit the promotional amount. This is a perfect time to consider gifts for a birthday, a thank you, or a “just because.” If it’s at the grocery store, take the extra food to a food bank. There’s no shame in regifting the gift in this case.

Give back your interest

If you’ve done the work to put your savings in a high-interest savings account, then consider using what you gain in interest around gift-giving time. It’s money you most likely won’t miss, and you won’t technically be dipping into your savings.

Donate your savings on deals

We are wired to love a good deal. The next time you get 40 percent off on something, though, consider donating that 40 percent that you saved to a good cause.

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

The Ocean Cleanup removed a record 25 million kilos of plastic in 2025 (and t...

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a world where the scale of plastic pollution can feel overwhelming, 2025 brought a milestone worth celebrating: ...

Read More

Ancient nits aid uncovering of human ancestry

To uncover information about ancient genomes scientists have previously relied on fossils of bones and teeth. Alongside ethical issues, the problem with this is ...

Read More

Always late? Here’s 7 tips to curb the habit

We’ve all run late before, whether it was because of a missed alarm, couldn't find the right outfit, or getting stuck in traffic. It ...

Read More

How Uruguay achieved 98% renewable energy 

During the 2000s, as global fossil fuel costs skyrocketed, Uruguay faced a tremendous issue. Uruguay, as a country heavily reliant on foreign oil, found ...

Read More