The International Day of Charity 2026 will be observed on September 5, drawing attention to philanthropy, volunteering and efforts to support people facing poverty, humanitarian crises and social disadvantage.
The United Nations observes the day globally to encourage charitable and philanthropic activities and to raise awareness about the role of individuals, civil society organisations and other stakeholders in addressing humanitarian and social challenges. September 5 is also observed as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Women and Girls.
International Day of Charity on September 5
The United Nations General Assembly designated September 5 as the International Day of Charity through Resolution A/RES/67/105. The date was selected to coincide with the anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa, who died on September 5, 1997.
The observance seeks to encourage people and organisations to contribute to charitable activities and promote greater awareness of humanitarian needs around the world.
Focus on Philanthropy and Volunteerism
Charity can take different forms, ranging from financial donations and volunteering to community-based initiatives and humanitarian assistance.
The UN says charitable efforts can help address urgent needs while also supporting areas such as healthcare, education, housing, child protection and assistance for vulnerable communities.
The day therefore goes beyond monetary donations, highlighting collective action and community participation as ways of supporting people in need.
Link With Mother Teresa
The choice of September 5 has a particular significance because it marks the death anniversary of Mother Teresa, the Indian citizen and founder of the Missionaries of Charity.
Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her work among people affected by poverty and distress. She died in Kolkata on September 5, 1997, at the age of 87.
Her humanitarian work became internationally associated with caring for people who were poor, sick, orphaned and dying.
Charity and Humanitarian Action
The United Nations also links charitable activity with humanitarian response. During crises and disasters, charitable organisations and volunteers can complement public efforts by providing assistance to communities facing urgent needs.
The UN notes that humanitarian relief is often required when disasters or other emergencies exceed the capacity of national authorities to respond alone.
This makes the International Day of Charity an occasion not only for individual giving but also for considering how communities and organisations can respond to wider humanitarian challenges.
Charity and Sustainable Development
Charitable and philanthropic activities are also connected with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The UN highlights civic engagement, collective action and community participation as important elements in addressing poverty and other development challenges.
Efforts in areas such as education, healthcare, food security and support for vulnerable groups can contribute to broader development objectives when they are sustained and responsibly implemented.
International Day of Charity 2026: Key Details
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Date: September 5, 2026
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Observance: International Day of Charity
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Established by: United Nations General Assembly
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Resolution: A/RES/67/105
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Purpose: Promote charity, philanthropy and volunteerism
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Date significance: Death anniversary of Mother Teresa
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Mother Teresa: Nobel Peace Prize laureate, 1979
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Related UN observance on September 5: International Day of the World’s Indigenous Women and Girls
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