Summary
GoFundMe reported a 20% increase in fundraisers for basic needs like housing and food in 2025. This trend reflects growing concerns about affordability in places like the United States, Canada, and the UK. Many people are using crowdfunding to manage rising living costs amid economic challenges.
Key Facts
- The number of fundraisers for essential expenses on GoFundMe increased by 20% in 2025.
- "Monthly bills" was the second fastest-growing category for fundraisers, after support for nonprofits.
- Major English-speaking regions like the U.S., Canada, UK, and Australia saw a rise in such fundraisers.
- Economic issues like low wage growth, higher unemployment, and low consumer confidence were noted in the U.S.
- GoFundMe reported a sixfold increase in food-related fundraisers as monthly SNAP benefits were cut off during a government shutdown.
- Crowdfunding has shifted from funding entrepreneurial efforts to helping with basic needs.
- Many struggling individuals, like Iesha Shepard, turn to crowdfunding as a last resort.
- Successful crowdfunding often requires internet access, storytelling skills, and strong social networks.
