Before You Give: 7 Questions to Ask Any Charity Working in Africa
Most people who give never find out what their money did. These seven questions help you find out before you give, to us or to anyone else. Under each one we answer it ourselves, including the answers that do not flatter us.
1. Where exactly does my money go?
A clear answer names percentages and says who actually gets paid. "It supports our programs" is not an answer.
Our answer
92% goes to the farmer's local seed and fertilizer shop. 8% covers field verification visits and receipt documentation. The shop is paid directly; the money is not handed over as cash. See our fees.
2. Can I see proof for my own gift?
Annual reports show totals. Ask whether you can see what your own gift bought.
Our answer
Each sponsor receives the receipt from the seed shop, photos from the field, and a message from the farmer. Receipts are also posted on the Receipt Wall as they come in.
3. How long has the organization been doing this?
A new organization is not a bad one, but it should say so. Be careful with anyone who implies a long history they cannot show.
Our answer
We are a young organization and the sponsorship program is in its early seasons. We would rather tell you that than imply a long track record. The Receipt Wall shows how many sponsorships have been completed so far, so you can judge for yourself.
4. Who runs it, and can I talk to them?
You should be able to find a named person, a location, and a way to reach them before you give.
Our answer
Maputo Bridge Capital was founded by Anselmo Boaventura, who is Mozambican and based in Fort Worth, Texas. You can call or message him at (516) 360-8323 or email anselmo.boaventura@maputobridgecapital.com. Read his story.
5. Is my gift tax-deductible?
The answer should be a plain yes, with registration details, or a plain no. Vague wording here is a warning sign.
Our answer
No. Sponsorships are gifts, not investments, and they are not tax-deductible.
6. What happens if things go wrong?
Farming is risky. An honest organization tells you what can fail and does not promise outcomes.
Our answer
A harvest can fail because of drought, floods, cyclones, or pests. A sponsorship is a gift and carries no financial return. We publish what can go wrong on our risks page.
7. What happens after the season ends?
Ask whether the help stops with one season or builds toward something lasting.
Our answer
After harvest, the farmer repays into a Community Fund that helps the next farmer get the same start. Repayments go to the fund, not to sponsors. Sponsors receive a harvest update.
Use these questions anywhere
Share this page with your church, your family, or anyone deciding where to give. If our answers satisfy you, you can meet the farmers. If they do not, we would like to hear why.
Get one farmer story a month
— and see where every dollar goes.
Sponsorships are gifts, not investments, and are not tax-deductible. This checklist is general guidance, not legal or tax advice.