what is charity

Charity is the voluntary provision of assistance to those in need, serving as a humanitarian act and unmotivated by self-interest. It can take various forms, including donating money, goods, or time to the less fortunate, providing basic necessities such as food, water, clothing, healthcare, and shelter, visiting the imprisoned or homebound, educating orphans, and supporting social movements. The word "charity" originated in late Old English to mean "Christian love for ones fellows," and it is often associated with religion. Charitable giving can also be a religious act or duty referred to as almsgiving or alms. It is important to ensure that charitable organizations are established exclusively for public benefit and that their aims fall into categories that the law says are charitable, such as preventing or relieving poverty, advancing the arts, culture, heritage, or science. Charities cannot make profits, and all the money they raise has to go towards achieving their aims. They must also benefit the public and cannot have owners or shareholders who benefit from them).