Nonprofits work to meet giving goals even as shoppers stay home

Charitable needs nationwide are surging alongside spiking COVID cases, with arts organizations in particular facing a shrinking list of donors, said Rick Cohen, chief operating officer for the National Council of Nonprofits [2].

Childcare, mental health and clothing drives are all confronting prospects of a long, cold winter, Cohen said.

"Millions of unemployed turned to nonprofits after their enhanced benefits expired," he said. "With eviction moratoriums expiring as well, there's more need for food, clothing and shelter."

Nonprofits that normally bank on high shopper turnout are challenged now as any organization is when forced to cancel an in-person fundraising event. Cohen's council is encouraging creativity among its network, especially in terms of outreach for folks choosing to stay home.

"It's a matter of raising visibility to show that the need is there," Cohen said. "Remind donors that every little bit helps."