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GiveDirectly
Direct cash transfers to people living in extreme poverty
Very Strong evidence
Kenya, Uganda, RwandaGlobal HealthPoverty Alleviation
Why we chose this charity
GiveDirectly gives cash directly to people living in extreme poverty, letting recipients decide how to spend it. Rigorous research including randomized controlled trials shows cash transfers improve food security, assets, and psychological wellbeing. It also sets a benchmark — if a charity can't beat direct cash, it should reconsider its approach.
Cost-effectiveness
cost to deliver $1,000 directly to a person in extreme poverty. GiveWell November 2024 update found this program 3–4x more impactful than previously estimated due to economic spillover effects.
Source: GiveWell ↗Impact estimates involve uncertainty. Click the source to read the full methodology.
About
Delivers cash directly to people living in poverty.
Ratings & research
Independently verifiedGiveWell Top Charity
Charity Navigator: 97/100
Score as of Jan 2025. Click to verify current rating.
Appears in these funds
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