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Fundraising TipsSNAP Benefits Halted! Don’t Wait for Someone Else, Step In and Be the Hands and Feet of Jesus
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 30, 2025
It's been nearly a month since the government shutdown began, leaving millions of Americans without paychecks, stability, or answers. And now, the news has spread that starting November 1st, no SNAP benefits will be issued. That means nearly 42 million Americans, about 1 in 8 people, who depend on that assistance for groceries, will wake up that day with an EBT card that simply won't reload. For many families, that means empty fridges. Empty cupboards. Empty stomachs. It's heartbreaking-and it's a reminder of something we've always known deep down: People were created to care for each other, neighbor helping neighbor, not to leave the task to a faceless institution that can be turned off with the stroke of a pen. We can and should stand for truth, advocate for better systems, and pray for reform-but those things can shift in an instant. Policies change. Promises break. And those who suffer most are the ones just trying to feed their families and make it through another day. But here's the good news: the care of souls has never rested in politics. It's always been in people, people willing to step in and share be the hands of Jesus. If You're Losing SNAP Benefits, You're Not Alone If you're one of the millions affected by this halt, know this: you are not forgotten. You don't have to face the uncertainty alone. You can invite your community to come alongside you in prayer, encouragement, and tangible support by starting a GiveSendGo campaign. It's not about asking for a handout, it's about giving others the opportunity to live out the love of Christ and walk with you through this season. Your family is deeply loved. Your need matters. And there are people ready to help-you just have to take the first step. When Needs Arise, So Should We Scripture makes it clear-when there's a need, the people of God are meant to rise up. Galatians 6:2 - "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." 1 John 3:17 - "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?" Matthew 25:35-40 - "I was hungry and you gave me something to eat..." When Jesus walked through towns, He didn't form a committee or wait for policy approval. He stepped in. He fed the hungry, touched the leper and brought dignity, and met needs the moment He saw them. That's our model. That's our call. Crowdfunding: A Modern Way to Bear Each Other's Burdens When you see a neighbor's pantry running low, a single mom choosing between rent and groceries, or a friend too embarrassed to ask for help-those are divine opportunities to act. Crowdfunding expands the Church's reach and ability to do what it's always been called to do-care for the widows, the orphans, and one another. It helps communities act faster than bureaucracy ever could, getting resources directly into the hands of those in need, quickly and compassionately. Here's how you can make a difference right now: Start a campaign for a family who just lost their SNAP benefits. Give to an existing campaign helping feed families in your community. Share those campaigns so others can join in. (When just ten people share a campaign, it can reach tens of thousands-that's the power of collective compassion.) Pray for the people behind every need you see. Join the Giver Army and pledge as little as $5/month to the Pro-Life Fund, which helps families and individuals in need. Don't Forget Your Local Food Banks & Organizations on the Ground This shutdown doesn't just affect families, it's about to overwhelm the food banks that support them. These organizations are bracing for a flood of need they can't possibly meet alone. You can help them directly, too: Start a campaign to help fund your local food pantry so they can purchase more food. Donate food or volunteer your time. Spread awareness in your church or community. And don't assume someone else will step in. You might be the only one who does. So act now. Let people see what you believe-not just through your words, but through your actions. Let them see Christ in you. Beyond local food banks, consider fundraising for or directly supporting: Homeless shelters providing meals and beds. Church outreach ministries feeding families in your city. Pregnancy resource centers supporting mothers who may lose vital benefits and need community care more than ever. Community organizations delivering groceries to elderly or disabled individuals. Comment below who or what you're starting a campaign for! When we step in together, we create a web of care that no government program could ever replace. Why We Hesitate Many of us want to help but don't. Not because we don't care, but because something stops us: What if I don't know the "right" way to help? What if someone else does it better? What if people think I'm overstepping? But the truth is, there's no "perfect" way to love people. There's only obedience and compassion. "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver".- 2 Corinthians 9:7 The reward isn't in doing it flawlessly, it's in doing it faithfully. And God will honor that. Generosity is a sacrifice and that's a good thing. Remember the story of the widow's mite (Mark 12:41-44). She didn't give much by the world's standards, but she gave everything she had, without knowing where her next meal would come from. Jesus said her gift meant more than any of the others because she gave out of her lack, not her abundance. That's what faith-filled generosity looks like. So whether you have a lot or a little, know that your giving makes all the difference and it nourishes your soul just as much as it meets the needs of others. This Is Our Moment Don't wait for someone else to fix it. Don't wait for another headline or another law to change. When the government lets people down, the Church should rise up. Start a campaign. Give to a campaign. Share a campaign. Pray for the people behind every story. Support your local food bank. Meet the needs of people in your community and church. Be the one who steps in, because there may be no one else who will.
GiveSendGo NewsBehind the Kyle Rittenhouse Campaign
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 16, 2025
In August 2020, a 17-year-old from Illinois named Kyle Rittenhouse found himself at the center of one of the most polarizing moments in recent American history. What began as a night of unrest in Kenosha, Wisconsin, turned into a national firestorm when Rittenhouse, armed with a rifle, fatally shot two men and injured another during the riots. The footage spread instantly. Social media exploded. Politicians, pundits, and reporters all had something to say. Some saw Kyle as a vigilante; others as a young man defending himself in a city on fire. And before a jury ever heard the facts, the court of public opinion had already issued its verdict. What often gets lost in the headlines, though, is what happened next - how a teenager and his family suddenly had to face a legal battle no one is ever prepared for, and how GiveSendGo became a lifeline when others turned them away. When Help Was Needed Most As Kyle faced serious charges, including homicide, his family turned to crowdfunding to help pay for his legal defense. Mounting a quality defense in a high-profile case can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars - sometimes more. But when supporters tried to raise funds for him on GFM, their efforts were quickly shut down. The platform removed campaigns tied to Kyle, later citing "policy restrictions." This left his supporters frustrated and searching for answers. That's when they found GiveSendGo. Unlike GFM, GiveSendGo believes people deserve the chance to raise funds for their needs, regardless of how controversial their situation might be or whether or not we personally agree with the cause. We're not meant to be judge and jury, but to offer a space where people can confidently fundraise without fear of being deplatformed or censored. Because here's the truth: if the media or public opinion decides who gets a defense, we lose the foundation of fairness itself. Wouldn't you want someone to have the best possible defense, so that when a verdict is reached, you know it was fair - not determined by who could afford a lawyer or who the internet liked that week? A quality defense shouldn't be reserved for the wealthy or the popular. It's a right every American deserves - the right to due process, to fairness, and to truth. His Fundraising Journey When Kyle's campaign launched on GiveSendGo, it went viral almost overnight. Donations poured in from people who didn't all necessarily agree on what happened that night in Kenosha, but who believed in the importance of due process. Thousands gave. Thousands more prayed. Supporters shared messages like, "Stay strong," "We're praying for truth to prevail," and "Justice for all means justice for you, too." In a 2021 press release, we shared that the campaign had become one of the most active legal defense campaigns on the platform, showing what can happen when ordinary people rally around the principle of fairness. The Verdict and the Ripple Effect On November 19, 2021, after one of the most-watched trials in modern history, Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted on all charges. The jury found that he had acted in self-defense. "Without GiveSendGo stepping in, this young man wouldn't have been afforded that right to a fair trial," said GiveSendGo co-founder Jacob Wells. "Rittenhouse has now been declared innocent in a court of law, and every platform that canceled him should be ashamed for not standing with the side of justice." [Read official release] The ruling sparked debate across the country, but it also raised a deeper question: What happens when public platforms decide who deserves help? GiveSendGo's role in that moment wasn't about politics - it was about principle. It reminded the world that hope, freedom, and fairness can still find a place to stand when everything else seems divided. And it set a precedent that continues to matter - for whistleblowers, veterans, workers, and everyday people who suddenly find themselves at the center of controversy and need help navigating it. As GiveSendGo co-founder Heather Wilson said in the same press release, "What would have happened to Kyle had GiveSendGo not been there? GiveSendGo exists to provide hope to the hopeless through crowdfunding, and that's exactly what happened with Kyle Rittenhouse. In the end, Kyle was found innocent, and we had his back - even when no one else did." [Read official release] Why His Story Matters Kyle Rittenhouse's campaign wasn't just about one person's defense - it was about everyone's freedom to ask for help. When every other door shut, GiveSendGo stayed open. One day, any one of us could find ourselves in a position where we need help and others to stand with us. Regardless of personal belief or what you've done, would anyone be there to support you? That's what GiveSendGo exists to protect. Additional Reading: GiveSendGo.com, the Only Platform to Stand With Innocent Man, Kyle Rittenhouse | GiveSendGo Press Release Article by WORLD News New York Post Says Crowdfunding Site Was Created For Rittenhouse Campaign. A Blatant Misrepresentation.| GiveSendGo Press Release Discover Card bans users from donating to Christian crowdfunding site after campaigns raise money for Kyle Rittenhouse, Kenosha officer| GiveSendGo Press Release
GiveSendGo FeaturesThe Hope Team: We Pray for EVERY Fundraiser on GiveSendGo
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
At GiveSendGo, we've always believed that fundraising is about more than meeting people's material needs - it's about meeting their spiritual and emotional needs too. It's about sharing hope. That belief gave birth to The Hope Team. When it was first created, it was simply called the Prayer Team. Today, the name may have changed, but the heart remains the same: to call and pray for every single fundraiser on GiveSendGo. A Ministry Born from a Mission What started as a handful of people making phone calls has become one of the most impactful ministries and departments within GiveSendGo. Every day, members of The Hope Team - also known as our Prayer Partners - reach out to fundraisers from every walk of life. They listen to stories, offer encouragement, and ask one simple question that often opens the door to something even deeper: "Can I pray for you?" Some are eager and grateful for the prayer. Some can't believe there's a department whose only goal is to call and pray with them - with no strings attached. Others are skeptical, unsure, or even uninterested. And that's okay too. Because no matter the response, we recognize each person as an image bearer of God - deserving of our time, our care, and the dignity of being seen and valued. The "God Calls" If you spend enough time around The Hope Team, you'll hear a phrase repeated often - "God calls." Those are the moments when it's clear that God orchestrated the timing. Like the person who answered the phone as they were being wheeled back for surgery. Or the one who picked up mid-interview on a live radio show. Or the person who confessed they had been about to end their life - until that unexpected call came through. These moments aren't coincidences. They're divine appointments. They remind us why The Hope Team exists, and why GiveSendGo will always be more than just a crowdfunding platform - it's a place where help meets hope, and prayer changes lives. Hear Real Prayer Call Testimonies Want to see what these moments look like? Here are a few testimonies from real Hope Team calls that show what God can do through a simple phone conversation: "Thank you for praying and pushing the enemy back..." "That meant the world to me..." "I really needed it..." Every call is different. Every story is unique. But the heart behind each one is the same - to bring hope to those who need it most. Expanding the Mission: The Monthly Prayer Hotline This year, the mission of The Hope Team expanded even further. We launched a monthly prayer hotline - held at the beginning of every month - where anyone can call in, speak directly with our prayer team, and receive personal prayer. Some call in desperate for hope. Others simply need encouragement. And some call just to share a praise report - to celebrate what God has done in their life. Each call has become a sacred space for connection, reminding people that no matter what they're walking through, they're not walking alone. The Mission Continues Today, The Hope Team continues to grow - and so does their reach. They've prayed for every single fundraiser on GiveSendGo, with thousands more added every month. Their calls have reached across the United States and around the world, touching people in dozens of countries. Each call, each prayer, and each moment reminds us: God is faithful and He's still at work in people's lives. And we're going to continue sharing the hope he offers with anyone who will hear.
GiveSendGo NewsA New Era of Storytelling: Introducing FilmLauncher: Where Faith, Film, and Freedom Collide
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
When was the last time a movie made you better, not just entertained you? Have you ever stopped to ask, What would Jesus say about what I just watched? Did it make me look more like Him? Did it draw me closer to Christ or pull me further away? These are questions we need to be asking ourselves, especially when the average American now watches 4-5 hours of television every day. And with streaming services, that influence is now literally in our pockets all day long. Colossians 3:2 reminds us, "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." If we're going to follow Christ, isn't it important, then, that we grow more discerning about what we allow into our minds and hearts? Media today often distorts family, morality, and beauty. Too many shows push explicit imagery, twisted "truths," and ideologies that clash with biblical values. It's hard not to wonder: how much of what we consume is quietly shaping (and let's just say it - corrupting) our hearts and minds, pulling us away from the truth of God's Word? According to the Media Research Center, 73% of Americans say the entertainment industry negatively impacts moral values, yet many feel powerless to change it. That's why FilmLauncher exists. And here's the best part: You're not just invited to watch this story unfold - you're invited to be part of it. [Watch it's founders share the vision for FilmLauncher here] What Is FilmLauncher? FilmLauncher is the first of its kind - a one-stop home where creators can crowdfund, create, market, and stream their projects all in one place. Whether it's a moving documentary, a powerful faith-based drama, or a family series that offers something better than what Hollywood puts out, FilmLauncher exists to make it happen. It's about more than making entertaining movies. It's about redeeming storytelling itself. As Christians, we're called to step into the world's broken spaces and make them better - to steward God's gifts, follow in Jesus' footsteps, and reflect His light in everything we create. That's what FilmLauncher is doing for filmmaking: reclaiming an industry to reflect truth, honor biblical values, and glorify God by showcasing the creativity He placed in us. Learn More: Read the Official Press Release The Minds Behind FilmLauncher FilmLauncher was founded by visionaries who recognize that sharing the hope of Jesus is one of the most powerful ways we can steward what God's given us-and the film industry is in desperate need of it. They saw the growing hunger for stories that edify and chose to take action. Heather Wilson & Jacob Wells - Co-Founders of GiveSendGo Seth Talbott - Former CEO of Relief Factor and a 3x Inc. 5000 Founder Jed Burdick - CEO of Votary Films Through FilmLauncher, they seek to amplify stories that speak truth, spark hope, and shift culture for good. Why FilmLauncher Matters It's worth repeating, the film industry has changed. Too often, voices that stand for faith, family, and freedom are silenced or sidelined. But what if there was a space where creators could tell stories freely and where audiences could back the kind of films they actually want to see? That's the vision behind FilmLauncher: to build a film ecosystem that celebrates truth, beauty, and values worth standing for. Because when storytellers with conviction have the tools and freedom to create without compromise - culture begins to change. At GiveSendGo, we've seen firsthand how powerful stories can be. They give hope. They move people to action. They shine light into dark places. The Bible says, "Tell of His wonderful works" (Psalm 105:2). That's what storytelling does - it reminds the world that God is still at work. FilmLauncher takes that same heartbeat and expands it into a medium that can reach millions. Why Filmmakers Need This Independent filmmakers face an uphill battle. They can either: Sell to platforms like Netflix or Amazon - with a 0.1% chance of success. Partner with major players like Angel Studios - and lose creative control. Or do it all themselves - raising funds, hiring teams, marketing, distributing - and hoping to break even. It's no wonder over 60% of crowdfunded film projects never get funded. FilmLauncher changes that. By combining GiveSendGo's proven crowdfunding model with professional filmmaker support, marketing resources, and distribution tools, we're equipping creators to bring their visions to life - without compromise or gatekeepers. With FilmLauncher, filmmakers get access to: Crowdfunding Tools powered by GiveSendGo's trusted platform Production Support from experienced mentors and producers Marketing Resources to grow and engage audiences Streaming Infrastructure for direct-to-viewer releases A Community that shares your values And for supporters, FilmLauncher opens a new way to be generous. Not only can you back the stories and projects you care about, you're investing in a cultural shift. Join the Future of Filmmaking Right now, FilmLauncher is in its early investment phase through WeFunder - and you have the chance to become an early owner of this movement. Early investors will enjoy: Founder-level recognition Exclusive investor perks The satisfaction of building something that will outlast us all Whether you're a filmmaker ready to bring your vision to life, a film lover longing for more faith-driven stories, or someone simply tired of what Hollywood keeps putting out-this is your moment to invest in stories that will impact generations to come. This is your invitation to help change the future of film with FilmLauncher. Will you help us write its opening scene? Click here to visit FilmLauncher on WeFunder and reserve your spot
GiveSendGo NewsWe Gave Away a Car!
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
At GiveSendGo, our mission is to share the hope of Jesus through crowdfunding. One of the ways we do that is through our Outrageous Generosity Initiative-meeting needs both on and beyond the platform, showing the love of Jesus in practical, unexpected ways. Recently, that mission came to life in a big way when we gave away our first-ever car to a family in need. [Watch the full video of the car giveaway here] A Series of Hardships In February, Trey was involved in a devastating accident with a semi-truck that left him hospitalized with serious injuries and in need of multiple surgeries. This tragedy followed a string of heartbreaking events. Before the crash, the family's only vehicle had been stolen. Then, last year, Trey and Felicia's three-year-old son was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoma. Losing their remaining car in the accident left them without transportation at all-while also facing medical appointments, treatments, and recovery. A Prayer That Started It All We first heard about the Perdue family through a call made to Felicia by our Hope Team. She asked for prayer for her niece and her family after the accident. During the call, she shared their story and the challenges they were facing. After praying with her, Felicia prayed over us and over GiveSendGo-asking Jesus to keep using this platform for His glory. God's Provision Delivering it in person was a profoundly moving experience. It reminded us that true generosity isn't just about meeting practical needs; it's about restoring hope. It's about reflecting the heart of Jesus, who has been outrageously generous with us. His example compels us to go beyond words-offering hope through action. As it says in 1 John 3:18 (ESV): "Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth." This was our first car giveaway, but it won't be the last. We believe generosity opens doors for the gospel and helps people experience the hope that changes everything. Watch the moment we delivered the car to the Perdue family
GiveSendGo NewsBehind the Eithan Haim Campaign
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
When controversy strikes, crowds often rush to judgment. But sometimes, people rally behind truth-and GiveSendGo becomes the platform where help and hope can be found. This is the story of Dr. Eithan Haim, a Texas surgeon who stood up for what he believed was right, faced immense backlash, and found strength through a community that refused to let him fight alone. What Led to the Campaign In 2023, Dr. Eithan Haim became a whistleblower. He exposed a secret transgender program at Texas Children's Hospital-one that violated ethical and medical standards. His decision to come forward drew national attention-and with it, severe personal consequences. Soon after his disclosure, federal prosecutors charged Haim with allegedly violating the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Overnight, he went from surgeon to defendant, from respected professional to headline target. The toll was immediate: legal threats, personal attacks, and a mounting defense burden that few could shoulder alone. But Eithan Haim wasn't just facing a courtroom-he was standing up against a system, determined to tell the truth and protect his integrity. He needed a place where he could fundraise freely-without fear of being deplatformed, censored, or silenced. Choosing GiveSendGo In an interview on GiveSendGo's Shine Brightly podcast, when asked why he chose GiveSendGo, Dr. Haim didn't hesitate: "There was only one option. It was GiveSendGo. ... We would be completely screwed without you. ... Ever since we saw with GFM, they had taken $9 million from the truckers ... to think that we could raise funds and have it taken away-that's horrifying. There was no choice." [Watch Clip] In a time when other platforms had shut down campaigns for political or public reasons, GiveSendGo represented something different-a safe haven for those who needed to tell their story and seek support without fear. Dr. Haim and his supporters chose GiveSendGo because it stood for freedom, faith, and fairness. A place where the right to due process and defense would never be denied based on controversy or public opinion. The Fundraising Journey From the moment his campaign launched, supporters poured in-sending prayers, donations, and encouragement. His story spread rapidly online as people across the country resonated with his courage to speak out. In just months, his campaign raised over $1.2 million on GiveSendGo. Each contribution represented more than financial help-it was a statement of conviction, a vote of confidence that truth still mattered. And in early 2025, after nearly two years of uncertainty, the tide turned. The charges against Dr. Haim were dropped, marking a hard-fought victory and a step toward justice and reform. View Dr. Haim's GiveSendGo campaign HERE Why It Matters Dr. Haim's story is more than one man's legal battle-it's a reflection of what GiveSendGo stands for. 1. A Platform That Protects Freedom and Fairness Dr. Haim's case underscores why crowdfunding platforms should never act as judge and jury. Every person deserves the opportunity to defend themselves and to seek justice without fear of censorship or discrimination. 2. The Power of a Community That Believes Even amid controversy, people rallied-not because they were told to, but because they believed in standing for truth and integrity. That's the beauty of crowdfunding: giving everyday people a way to take part in something bigger than themselves. 3. Hope That Sparks Change Haim's victory showed that courage, supported by community, can lead to reform. What began as a defense fund became a public statement about truth, transparency, and justice. A Story of Hope and Integrity Dr. Eithan Haim's journey reminds us that the fight for truth often comes at a cost-but no one has to face it alone. His campaign represents what GiveSendGo was built to do: to provide a secure and faith-filled place for people to raise funds, find encouragement, and share hope in the hardest battles. When others turned him away, GiveSendGo was there. And that made all the difference. Additional Resources: Shine Brightly Episode One Shine Brightly Episode Two Shine Brightly Podcast Clip View Eithan's GiveSendGo Campaign
GiveSendGo NewsBehind the Daniel Penny Campaign
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
In 2023, a subway confrontation in New York captured national attention, fueled passionate debate, and sparked a grueling legal battle. When Marine veteran Daniel Penny was charged in the death of Jordan Neely, he found himself in a position no one ever expects to be - needing a place to rally the help he needed. That platform became GiveSendGo - and what followed was one of the most viral, scrutinized, and ultimately vindicated fundraising campaigns in recent memory. What Led to the Campaign On May 1, 2023, Jordan Neely - an unhoused man with a history of mental health struggles - boarded a Manhattan subway train. According to multiple eyewitnesses, Neely began acting erratically, issuing threats, and frightening passengers. In that moment, Daniel Penny stepped in to restrain him. What happened next was recorded on video and quickly spread across the internet, igniting outrage, defense, and debate. What some saw as an act of courage, others condemned as reckless. Before any court proceedings began, the court of public opinion had already taken sides. Soon after, Manhattan prosecutors charged Penny with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide - serious offenses that carried potentially life-altering consequences. With mounting legal fees and intense public scrutiny, Penny and his team knew they needed help. But choosing where to turn for that help would make all the difference. Choosing GiveSendGo When it came time to raise funds for his legal defense, Penny's team turned to GiveSendGo-a trusted and secure platform where people can fundraise freely without fear of being deplatformed. Unlike other crowdfunding sites, GiveSendGo doesn't exclude individuals based on controversy or public opinion. We exist to ensure everyone has the opportunity to raise support without fear of being silenced. "Too often, people are judged by the court of public opinion before they ever step into a courtroom," said Jacob Wells, Co-founder of GiveSendGo. "Hosting Daniel Penny's campaign wasn't about taking sides - it was about standing for the right of every person to raise the funds needed for a fair trial. Quality legal representation shouldn't be reserved for the wealthy. The ability to raise funds for one's defense ensures verdicts like the one we heard today are based on facts, not financial barriers." [Read Full GiveSendGo Press Release] At its height, Daniel Penny's campaign became the second-largest in GiveSendGo's history. The Viral Surge Once live, Penny's campaign took off almost instantly. Donations poured in from across the country - from large donors and everyday Americans alike - all united by one belief: that everyone deserves due process and a fair defense. Within weeks, the fund surpassed $2.8 million, drawing headlines nationwide. Supporters flooded the campaign page with prayers and words of encouragement like, "The world needs more patriots like you!" and "Thank you for your service to our nation. May you receive the expert and thorough legal defense to which you are entitled, and which you deserve." The Trial and the Verdict The trial stretched across months of tension and media attention. Jurors were initially asked to deliberate on the manslaughter charge, but after extended debate, they couldn't reach a verdict. The judge later dismissed that charge, and the trial continued on the lesser count of criminally negligent homicide. Finally, on December 9, 2024, Daniel Penny was acquitted. The court found him not guilty. "This campaign is a prime example of why GiveSendGo exists," said Heather Wilson, Co-founder of GiveSendGo. "While other platforms deny individuals the chance to raise funds for a quality legal defense based on their agendas, we believe people are innocent until proven guilty. Justice isn't served when resources are limited to those who fit certain narratives." Why His Story Matters So why does this story matter - not just for Daniel Penny, but for all of us? 1. A Platform for Legal Defense - Without Fear When the world seemed determined to pass judgment before hearing the facts, GiveSendGo stood as a platform where Penny could confidently fundraise - free from censorship or fear of having donations seized. 2. Bold Stories Inspire Bold Support Penny's case was polarizing. But thousands of people chose conviction over comfort, giving and sharing because they believed in fairness and due process. 3. A Test of Justice Under Pressure His campaign became a living example of how the principles of justice can survive intense scrutiny. When the noise of public opinion grows loud, truth must still have a voice. 4. Reinforcing Hope and Freedom At its core, GiveSendGo's mission goes beyond money raised - it's about hope. Penny's story showed that financial help and spiritual encouragement often walk hand in hand. Thousands didn't just give; they prayed, believing that truth would prevail. A Lasting Reminder Daniel Penny's journey stands as a reminder of what platforms like GiveSendGo exist to protect: the right to ask for help, to receive it freely, and to believe that justice belongs to everyone. Because when fairness is on the line, crowdfunding isn't just about raising money. It's about defending freedom, dignity, and the truth that every person deserves to be heard. Additional Reading: Daniel Penny Found 'Not Guilty' in Homicide Trial | GiveSendGo Press Release Fox News Article
GiveSendGo NewsBehind the Jose Alba Campaign
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
Sometimes, one ordinary day becomes the moment that changes everything. For Jose Alba, a quiet bodega worker in Harlem, that moment came on July 1, 2022. What began as a normal evening behind the counter of the Blue Moon convenience store ended in tragedy, arrest, and a fight for freedom that would capture national attention - and ultimately lead him to GiveSendGo. When a Working Man's Life Turned Upside Down Jose Alba wasn't a man of fame or influence. He was a 61-year-old immigrant, known in his neighborhood for his calm demeanor and steady work ethic. That night, as he worked his usual shift, a confrontation broke out between him and a customer. Surveillance footage later showed the tense exchange escalate quickly. In the chaos, Alba grabbed a knife and stabbed the man who was attacking him, an act prosecutors would later describe as murder and others would call self-defense. Within hours, Jose was in handcuffs. He was charged with second-degree murder and taken to Rikers Island. His bail was set at $250,000 - a staggering amount for a man who had spent decades earning a modest living behind a counter. The world around him changed overnight. What had been a moment of fear and survival turned into headlines, debate, and a legal nightmare that no ordinary worker could afford to face alone. When Crowdfunding Became the Only Hope With mounting legal fees and the future of their father on the line, Alba's family turned to crowdfunding to rally support for his defense. His son started a campaign on GFM, hoping that the public would stand with a man who had simply tried to protect himself at work. But their hope was short-lived. Citing a policy against raising funds for individuals charged with violent crimes, GFM removed the campaign. Supporters were stunned. The family's only lifeline - their ability to ask for help - had been cut off. Where could they turn when big tech platforms were deciding that their story wasn't allowed to be told? Finding a Place That Wouldn't Turn Them Away That's when the Alba family found GiveSendGo. On GiveSendGo, they could fundraise without fear of being silenced or censored. The campaign quickly gained traction, spreading across social media, local news, and community circles. Donations began to pour in. But more than that - prayers, encouragement, and public support flooded the page. As the campaign grew, it drew national attention - not just to Jose's case, but to a bigger issue: how far we've drifted when platforms decide who deserves help and who doesn't. "Charitable crowdfunding is a powerful tool that allows Americans to financially stand with fellow citizens facing daunting circumstances - people who have very few options and might otherwise be without hope," said Heather Wilson, co-founder of GiveSendGo. "We created our platform to come to the aid of families like the Albas. The internet should drive freedom, not serve as a source of tyranny." [Read Full GiveSendGo Press Release] Charges Dropped On July 19, 2022 - just 18 days after his arrest - prosecutors dropped the second-degree murder charge, acknowledging they could not prove homicide beyond a reasonable doubt. Jose was finally released from Rikers Island. The news sparked both relief and reflection. The case had become about more than one man - it was about justice, fairness, and the right to defend oneself without being abandoned by the systems meant to protect you. Why His Story Matters Jose Alba's story reminds us that in a world quick to judge, people still deserve hope - and the chance to be heard. When every other platform shut the door, GiveSendGo stayed open. We didn't decide whether Jose was right or wrong; that wasn't our role. Our role was to give him - and his family - a place to ask for help without fear of being erased. Because that's what true freedom looks like. And one day, any of us could find ourselves in the same position - misunderstood, under fire, and in need of others to stand with us. GiveSendGo exists for moments like that. To bring light where others shut the door. To protect the freedom to give, to share hope, and to rally help. Additional Reading: NYC Crime Victim Jose Alba Canceled on GoFundMe as Family Rushes to Raise Funds for Legal Defense on GiveSendGo | GiveSendGo Press Release GiveSendGo Steps in after NYC Bodega Clerk's Fundraiser is Deleted | NTD Article
GiveSendGo FeaturesThe Most Powerful Button on GiveSendGo (and It’s Not “Give”)
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
When you think of crowdfunding, you probably think of money raised and goals reached. And while those things truly matter, there's something even more powerful happening on GiveSendGo. Prayer. Specifically, a simple button right below "Give" called the Pray Button. And it's not just a nice feature-it's a lifeline for so many. Why the Pray Button Was Created When GiveSendGo started back in 2015, we set out to build something different. We didn't want to be just another crowdfunding site. We wanted to build a platform that shares the hope of Jesus while helping people meet real, tangible needs. From the very beginning, we knew that money only solves part of the problem. Meeting material needs is important and deeply impactful, but financial help alone doesn't heal a grieving heart, comfort someone walking through loss, or remind the hopeless that they are seen and loved by God. That's why the Pray Button was created-because when someone is struggling they need more than funds. They need hope. And that hope is what truly sets GiveSendGo apart. Prayer Changes Things In fact, GiveSendGo is the only crowdfunding platform with a Pray Button-mind-blowing, right?. From the start, we recognized the importance of creating a space where people could come together to lift someone up to the One who is in control of all things-to intercede, encourage, and share the hope that only Jesus can offer. The Bible shows us again and again that prayer is powerful-and it changes things: "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up." - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." - Hebrews 4:16 "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2 "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7 In some mysterious yet incredible way, God uses our prayers to speak life, peace, and comfort into someone's situation. Maybe it's a family facing a medical emergency. A missionary stepping out in faith. A widow rebuilding after loss. A dreamer believing God for the impossible. When you send a prayer message, you're reminding them they're not alone-that people they may never meet are standing with them. Prayer strengthens faith and is a testimony of our trust in Him, reminding us and others that God is at work even when we can't see it yet. Even Jesus prayed-and if the Son of God, who lived a perfect life, made prayer a priority, that tells us just how powerful and essential it truly is. That's why prayer shouldn't be the "well, I can't give, so I might as well pray" option. Prayer should be the first thing we do, because it's the most powerful thing we can do. Prayer is a Lifeline And or many campaign owners and recipients, those prayers mean even more than the donations. Oftentimes, they'll tell you that the words of encouragement, the Scriptures shared, and the heartfelt prayers are what carried them through. "I read them all, because those people who did that-it's like they went through this with me. Every donation, every letter, every prayer felt like this person was partnering with me and what I'm going through." - Bevelyn [Watch the full testimony here] "Hearing the prayers means so much-to know there were so many people out there praying for me." - Kyle [Watch the full testimony here] Don't Overlook the Power of Prayer So if you're a campaign owner or recipient, don't overlook your prayer messages. Read them. Let them encourage you. God may be using those very words to remind you that He's still working. And for everyone else-whether you have plenty to give or nothing at all-know that your prayers are powerful and deeply needed. Find a campaign that stirs your heart and click "Pray". Write a heartfelt prayer. Share a Bible verse. Speak encouragement. Your words might be exactly what someone needs to hear today. Because while money can change someone's situation, prayer can change their life.
GiveSendGo FeaturesThrowin’ It Back: Celebrating 10 Years of GiveSendGo
Posted by Alex Shipley on Oct 8, 2025
Ten years ago, in 2015, GiveSendGo made its debut in the world. What started as a bold idea around a family table has grown into a global platform where millions have shared hope, prayer, and generosity. Back then, the dream was simple: to create a place where people could raise funds and share the hope of Jesus in the process. And what a journey it's been. In those early days, the website was simple, the team was small, and the vision was just beginning to take shape. But God was already writing a story far bigger than we could imagine, orchestrating impact that would reach across nations, disasters, ministries, and personal needs, connecting givers with fundraisers in a shared mission of hope. Take a look at what GiveSendGo looked like back in 2015! Fast forward to 2025, and we're celebrating 10 years of goals raised, answered prayers, lives changed, and hope shared around the world. From people starting campaigns that raised millions to praying with people in their darkest moments, every step has been another reminder that God can use even a simple idea to make an eternal impact. As we look back, we can't help but look forward too-with excitement for what's next. Because we're just getting started. Here's to another decade of giving, sending, and going together.
