By
Alycia O'Dell

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Stay impactful,

Intimate partner loss before the age of 50 is a devastating experience, affecting nearly 1 in 10 young adults worldwide. And, in developing countries, widows often face compounded struggles, including economic instability, social isolation, and limited access to resources and support systems. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that support young widows & widowers?

The best charities that support young widows and widowers are Widowed and Young and the Modern Widows Club. Charities like the Global Fund for Widows and Mercy Without Limits work to equip young widows and widowers with the tools to escape poverty.

Whether you want to help a young mother build a new life for herself and her children, support young widows and widowers in the immediate aftermath of loss, or ensure support for the widows of first responders, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities that support young widows and widowers are all about, how they work, and what your best way would be to contribute.

Here’s What All the Best Charities That Support Young Widows & Widowers Have in Common

The charities on this list were chosen based on their mission, impact, transparency ratings, and achievements.

They operate primarily throughout the US and Canada, but some support young widows and widowers internationally.

Many of these charities provide direct counseling services to those suffering from a recent loss, while others provide resources to guide families to financial stability. Some cater to specific populations like bereaved spouses of first responders. Others cater to all young people who have lost an intimate partner.

Some of the charities below work to economically empower women in developing countries or conflict zones, while others tackle the roots of gender inequality to help young widows thrive.

Yet, they all share the same goal of supporting young widows and widowers.

These Are the 9 Best Charities That Support Young Widows & Widowers in 2025

Below are our favorite charities that support young widows & widowers (you can click on their link to directly jump to their section in this article):

(At the end of this article we’ll also share our six-step approach on how you can select the best charity to support.)

Modern Widows Club: Hope. Heal. Thrive.

The Modern Widows Club holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Pioneers in solutions, support, and research for widows worldwide.”

Modern Widows Club

The Modern Widows Club supports young widows and widowers through a range of supportive programs designed to tackle the emotional, social, and financial challenges widows encounter. For example, they facilitate peer-to-peer support groups, as well as special interest groups, including an art club, a travel club, and a parenting club. Furthermore, the organization equips widows with valuable skills and knowledge through educational resources such as workshops and online courses, featuring topics like financial literacy, emotional and mental health, and mentorship. Moreover, they partner with Growth Through Grief to support widowers through their healing journeys.

Since their founding, the Modern Widows Club has significantly impacted the lives of thousands of young widows and widowers, expanding their global reach beyond the US to Israel, India, and Kenya. For example, in 2021, they hosted 676 in-person and virtual support groups, reaching young widows around the world. In the same year, they provided more than 16,000 direct services to widows and widowers and hosted 256 special events.

You can donate to the Modern Widows Club via their website. You can also support the organization by shopping through their store or attending an event. 

Global Fund for Widows: Opening the Door to Financial Independence

The Global Fund for Widows holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Empowering widows around the world.”

Global Fund for Widows

The Global Fund for Widows supports widows and widowers of all ages in Africa and India through programs and initiatives that address their economic, social, and legal challenges. For example, they help widows achieve financial independence through the Widows Savings and Loan Association (WISALA), allowing previously unbanked women to make an initial investment, which the organization matches with a 2:1 grant, boosting their capital. Additionally, the charity advocates for policy changes to enhance the legal and social status of widows by collaborating with local governments and international organizations.

Since their founding, The Global Fund for Widows has significantly impacted the lives of thousands of widows, expanding their reach to India and several countries in Africa. For example, in 2022, they played a key role in getting UN resolution AR 76/252 “Addressing the situation of widows” adopted, improving conditions and establishing rights for widows globally. Moreover, their WISALA microbanks grew from 3 pilot banks in Tanzania to 164 microbanks globally by the end of 2022, helping over 26,200 widows achieve economic independence, and benefiting 62,800 children by preventing risks like child marriage and trafficking. 

You can donate to the Global Fund for Widows via their website. You can also support the organization by attending an event or spreading their message on social.

Mercy Without Limits: Compassion for Widows in Need

Mercy Without Limits holds a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Empathy in action.”

Mercy Without Limits

Mercy Without Limits runs a Widow Support initiative to address challenges like social stigma, economic hardship, and limited access to education and healthcare. For example, they provide vocational training for widows in skills such as sewing, soap production, food production, and hairdressing to help them generate income and assist others. Furthermore, they offer financial assistance and access to healthcare services for widows and their children, and also ensure they have basic necessities like food, water, and safe shelter. Additionally, they offer educational and sponsorship opportunities for the children of widows, providing extra support and ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

Since their founding, Mercy Without Limits has helped enrich the lives of thousands of vulnerable people, including young widows and widowers. For example, in 2022 they distributed more than 11,000 food baskets to almost 10,500 families in need, including young widows and their children. As another example, in the same year, they helped construct two schools, benefitting 2,000 students, and distributed more than 10,000 backpacks with school supplies to children in need. And, they provided cash assistance to 126 families to help pay for basic needs such as medical check-ups and follow-up care. 

You can donate directly to Mercy Without Limits through their website. You can also support the charity by sponsoring a child or volunteering.

Heifer International: Empowerment through Agriculture

Heifer International holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Silver Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Ending poverty begins with agriculture.”

Heifer International

Heifer International supports young widows and widowers in developing countries, empowering them through livestock donations, agricultural training, and business skills development. For example, by providing livestock such as goats and chickens, Heifer helps young widows generate income and improve nutrition. They also offer training in sustainable farming and business management, enabling widows and widowers to increase their productivity and start successful small businesses. Additionally, Heifer fosters community support networks, provides access to microloans and savings programs, and ensures healthcare and nutritional education.

Since their founding, Heifer International has impacted over 46 million households globally, including widows and widowers. For example, they have provided training to roughly 7.6 million people, 64% of whom were women, since 2012. And, in 2023 alone, they operated 79 projects and 26 signature programs across 19 countries, impacting almost 800,000 households.

You can donate directly to Heifer International through their website. You can also shop their gift catalog to choose specific items, like goats or community animal health worker kits. Furthermore, you can support Heifer International by volunteering or fundraising.

Widowed and Young: Solidarity Following Partner Loss

According to their financial report, Widowed and Young spent 60% of their expenditure on staff costs and 29% on fundraising and charitable activities.

“Helping to navigate life after loss.”

Widowed and Young

Widowed and Young supports individuals who have lost a partner before the age of 50 through a range of services aimed at both practical and emotional support. For example, their membership includes peer-led support groups facilitated by volunteers who have personally experienced young widowhood. As another example, the organization hosts various social activities like picnics, community meals, trips, and organized holidays, fostering connections and rebuilding social networks. Furthermore, their round-the-clock telephone helpline provides essential counseling, financial advice, and legal support.

Since their founding, Widowed and Young has supported thousands of grieving partners across the UK. For example, in 2022, they supported 4,650 young widowed people with the help of 166 volunteers. In the same year, their members organized more than 1,160 social events with almost 5,400 attendees, while over 400 members used their telephone helpline. Furthermore, they raised over $130,000 to better meet their members’ needs and gifted nearly 200 widows with an annual membership through their Memorial Fund. 

You can donate to Widowed and Young via their website. You can also contribute by volunteering or purchasing merchandise. 

Concerns of Police Survivors: Support for Families of Fallen Officers

Concerns of Police Survivors holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Rebuilding shattered lives of survivors and co-workers affected by line-of-duty deaths.”

Concerns of Police Survivors

Concerns of Police Survivors provides support programs for families and co-workers of fallen police officers, focusing on widows and widowers, through initiatives such as counseling, retreats, and scholarships. For example, their Spouses Retreat offers a space for widows and widowers to process their grief and connect with peers who share similar experiences. Additionally, their C.O.P.S. Kids Counseling Program provides financial assistance for therapy, and their scholarship program helps fund the education of children and spouses of fallen officers.

Since their founding, Concerns of Police Survivors has reached more than 50,000 family members and co-workers of fallen police officers, including young widows and widowers. For example, in 2022 alone, 214 survivors attended their C.O.P.S. Kids Camp, while their Spouses Retreat and Parents Retreat hosted 133 and 169 survivors, respectively. In the same year, they awarded almost $210,500 in scholarships to 69 surviving children and spouses, bringing their total to over $2.3 million since 1994.

You can donate to Concerns of Police Survivors via their website. You can also support the organization by participating in Project Blue Light or through fundraising.

Wings for Widows: Financial Guidance for Grieving Spouses

Wings for Widows holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“When life changes, we help change lives.”

Wings for Widows

Wings for Widows supports young widows and widowers by providing personalized financial guidance following the loss of a spouse. For example, their one-on-one financial coaching services include credit and identity protection, budgeting and managing debt, and banking and investments. As another example, they help widows and widowers navigate insurance, from collecting benefits to consolidating policies, as well as guidance through estate settlement and probate. Furthermore, their Financial Empowerment Center provides educational content on building and maintaining wealth, with topics like Investing for Beginners and Building a Portfolio.

Since their founding, Wings for Widows has helped alleviate finance-related stress for almost 2,100 bereaved spouses, including young widows and widowers. For example, in 2023 alone, they served almost 500 clients across 46 US states, providing 346 one-on-one coaching engagements and saving their clients roughly $865,000 in total.

You can donate directly to Wings for Widows through their website. You can also support the charity by volunteering in roles such as financial coaching, care management, or by joining their advisory council.

Soaring Spirits International: A Community of Hope

Soaring Spirits International holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Hope matters.”

Soaring Spirits International

Soaring Spirits International provides a range of programs designed to support the widowed community, including young widows and widowers. For example, their flagship program, Camp Widow, is a weekend-long event offering workshops, resources, and a supportive community for widowed individuals. Additionally, they run the Widowed Village online forum, which connects widowed people from around the world for peer support. Regional social groups, virtual programs, and an extensive library of resources further assist individuals in navigating their grief and rebuilding their lives.

Since their founding, Soaring Spirits International has reached over 4 million people and established 70 local support groups across the US. They also helped struggling widows and widowers with 10,000 Newly Widowed Packets and 20,000 Outreach Cards for emotional support. Furthermore, in 2020, they supported and surveyed over 800 widowed people and found higher levels of self-esteem, resilience, and personal growth in those that used the charity’s programs. 

You can donate to Soaring Spirits International via their website. You can also support the organization by volunteering or shopping through their store.

CARE: Economic Independence for Young Widows

CARE holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“We seek a world of hope, inclusion, and social justice, where poverty has been overcome and all people live with dignity and security.”

CARE

CARE implements a variety of programs designed to support widows and widowers in impoverished regions. For example, they promote economic empowerment through programs like microfinance, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support, enabling widows to build sustainable livelihoods. CARE also provides psychosocial support and legal assistance to help widows navigate issues like property rights and social discrimination. Furthermore, in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, CARE’s health initiatives ensure widows have access to essential healthcare services.

Since their founding, CARE has impacted the lives of millions of people living in poverty around the world, including young widows and widowers. In 2023 alone, they worked in 109 countries, reaching over 167 million people. For example, they increased access to health services, including sexual and reproductive health, for 135 million people, empowered 20 million people to advance gender equality, and served 20 million people through humanitarian response. 

You can donate to CARE via their website. You can also support the charity by joining their advocacy efforts or attending an event

How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?

The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities that support young widows & widowers. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.

• Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarize yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
• Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission. 
• Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
• Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing a charity’s progress in reaching its targets, the chances are they’re not making a substantial positive change.
• Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
• Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place. 

How Can You Best Support These Charities?

After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you. 

Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:

• Donate money. You can find donation pages on the website of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
• Buy their official merchandise. Charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
• Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
• Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
• Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.

Final Thoughts

Now it is up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to supporting young widows & widowers—based on the causes that matter most to you.

Stay impactful,

PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:

Sources

• Bowling Green University: Widowhood through the Decades
• Modern Widows Club: Home
• Charity Navigator: Modern Widows Club
• GuideStar: Modern Widows Club
• Modern Widows Club: Communities
• Modern Widows Club: Hope Resources
• Modern Widows Club: Courses
• Growth Through Grief: Home
• Modern Widows Club: 2021 Impact Report
• Modern Widows Club: Donate
• Modern Widows Club: Shop
• Modern Widows Club: Events
• Global Fund for Widows: Home
• Charity Navigator: Global Fund for Widows
• GuideStar: Global Fund for Widows
• Global Fund for Widows: WISALA
• Global Fund for Widows: Advocacy
• Global Fund for Widows: Global Reach
• Global Fund for Widows: 2022 Annual Report
• Global Fund for Widows: Donate
• Global Fund for Widows: Events
• Mercy Without Limits: Home
• Charity Navigator: Mercy Without Limits
• GuideStar: Mercy Without Limits
• Mercy Without Limits: Widow Support
• Mercy Without Limits: Education Support
• Mercy Without Limits: Orphan Fund
• Mercy Without Limits: 2022 Annual Report
• Mercy Without Limits: Donate
• Mercy Without Limits: Sponsor a Child
• Mercy Without Limits: Volunteer
• Heifer International: Home
• Charity Navigator: Heifer International
• GuideStar: Heifer International
• Heifer International: Our Work
• Heifer International: Environmental Sustainability
• Heifer International: Womens Empowerment
• Heifer International: Community Mobilaztion
• Heifer International: Economic Development
• Heifer International: Food Security and Nutrition
• Heifer International: 2023 Annual Report
• Heifer International: Donate
• Heifer International: Gift Catalog
• Heifer International: Volunteer
• Heifer International: Fundraise
• Widowed and Young: Home
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• Widowed and Young: Donate
• Widowed and Young: Volunteer
• Widowed and Young: Shop 
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Home
• Charity Navigator: Concerns of Police Survivors
• GuideStar: Concerns of Police Survivors
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Counseling
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Hands On Programs
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Spouses
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Parents
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Kids Camp
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Scholarship
• ​​Concerns of Police Survivors: 2022 Annual Report
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Donate
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Pavers
• Concerns of Police Survivors: Christmas Ornament
• Wings for Widows: Home
• Wings for Widows: Founder’s Story
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• Wings for Widows: Financial Coaching
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• Wings for Widows: What is a Financial Portfolio
• Wings for Widows: Beginners Guide to Investing
• Wings for Widows: 2023 Annual Report
• Wings for Widows: Donate
• Wings for Widows: Volunteer 
• Soaring Spirits International: Home
• GuideStar: Soaring Spirits International
• Soaring Spirits International: Camp Widow..
• Soaring Spirits International: Virtual Programs
• Soaring Spirits International: Regional Social Groups
• Soaring Spirits International: Resources
• Soaring Spirits International: Donate
• Soaring Spirits International: Volunteer
• Soaring Spirits International: Shop
• CARE: Home
• Charity Navigator: CARE
• GuideStar: CARE
• CARE: Womens Economic Justice
• CARE: Microfinance
• CARE: Dignified Work
• CARE: Womens Entrpreneurship
• CARE: CARE Country Examples
• CARE: Gender Equality
• CARE: Where We Work
• CARE: Health
• CARE:2023 Annual Report
• CARE: Donate
• CARE: Speak Out
• CARE: Attend an Event