In today's society where it is easier to pay with cards or other electronic means, we are presented with some creative ways for people to give to the church while making their daily purchases.
Here are just four examples of programs that allow people to give to the church while doing their normal shopping.
Here are just for examples of programs:
- eScrip
- Scrip Program
- Live to Serve [Richmond, VA only]
- Amazon Smiles
How it works
The church must first register with one or more of these services. Once the church is approved by the organization, people have the opportunity to make some of their every day purchases through these organizations or a special gift card from the organization. It does not cost the church anything nor does it cost the person any thing. Merchants participate in these programs and offer their products at the same price but agree to give a portion of the sale to the church.
So people can participate in these programs, and with a little planning and preparation get more money for their church.
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Discover your options
- Take a look at the programs listed above.
- Do some research to see if there are any programs like these specific to your community.
- Decide which one(s), if any, are a good match for your church.
- Register with the appropriate programs.
- Communicate to your church how they can participate and benefit the church.
How can this help your ministry
Most of the churches I am aware of participate in these programs designate the funds received through these programs for specific ministries. Several of them designate this money for benevolence and outreach. Doing so helps to bring an emotional tie and encourage people to participate.
Conclusion
I hesitate to call this free money. However, if the church and individuals are willing to invest a little time, this can result in some extra money for the church. Remember, the goal is not to encourage people to go out spend money on frivolous things. The goal is to encourage them to direct money to the church on purchases they would already be making.
Questions
What other programs like this would you like to share with the community? If you are using one of these programs, how does your church benefit?
Original image courtesy LIU MING/123RF