FAQ
Frequently asked questions
1. What does DesanaGiving do?
DesanaGiving (officially Desana Inc.) is a nonprofit charitable organization that improves and enriches the lives of children of poverty. We work with our project directors to be good steward of the donations we receive to provide what is needed for each of our projects. 100% of all donations we receive go towards our projects.
2. How did DesanaGiving get started?
The organization was the vision of Kathy Houk. While traveling in Peru following her chemo and radiation treatment for cancer, Kathy fell in love with the children of Peru. Her friend and guide in Peru, Gary Sanchez, share his vision for helping children in this poor country. Kathy returned home and Desana was born. Read more ..... Founders's Story
3. How can I be sure you are doing what you claim?
We appreciate your interest in DesanaGiving. Due diligence is an important part of capital allocation, whether in the form of a donation or an investment. We seek to be 100% transparent in our goals, mission and operations. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about our organization. Visit our projects page to see the proof of our impact.
4. Why should I donate to DesanaGiving?
By donating to DesanaGiving, you will be directly changing the lives of children by providing them with appropriate help. You are empowering these children to escape the viscous cycles of poverty which can only be achieved through changing their habits. DesanaGiving relies on the generosity of people like you to support our projects. Our innovative financing strategy ensures that 100% percent of your donation is put to work to aid those in need.
5. How do I make a reoccurring donation?
Reoccurring donations can be setup through our online donating service provider, PayPal. For your own protection, PayPal askes that you create a free account to become a reoccurring donor. This will also allow you the ability to manage your donations should you need to cancel or change your gift at any time.
6. How do I make a donation as a gift in honor or memory?
Please visit our ways to contribute page for more information on gifts in honor and/or memory.
7. What kind of material or inkind donations do you accept?
For the most part, we (DesanaGiving) will purchase what is needed for these children so monetary donations are the best way to help. If you would like to collect clothing to send to our Russian Projects, contact us to find out what is needed and how to ship these items. Unfortunately, it is very hard to send items into Peru as their list of 'unauthorized items' is very long. Russia is much easier and open to receiving goods. Still, the best way to help is to send money.
8. Can I donate in a currency other than US dollars?
You can donate in any currency supported by PayPal through their online credit card transaction system. The credit card company will automatically convert your gift to U.S. dollars. You may also mail us a check in other currencies; however, your gift will incur conversion fees.
9. Is my contribution tax deductible?
Yes. DesanaGiving, Inc. is a not-for-profit, 501 (c) 3 organization and charitable donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by the laws of the United States of America for all charities that have recieved recognized status. You can help us work against global poverty by visiting opportunities to give. Please note that we are only registered in the United States and any donation made outside the U.S. is NOT tax deductible.
10. I need a copy of your Tax Exemption Status / 501 (c) 3 Letter. How can I get that?
Download the Tax Exemption Status Letter here.
11. What is your EIN / Tax ID Number?
20-8538158
12. I want to get involved, what other ways can I support your work or volunteer?
Thank you for your interest in helping DesanaGiving. Please visit our volunteer page for detailed information on ways you can assist our organization. Information on fundraising opportunities is also available on our Learn About Ways to Help Page.
14. Does DesanaGiving have a religious affiliation?
DesanaGiving does not have any religious affiliation nor does it discriminate in its aid work or other activities.
15. Is DesanaGiving politically active?
We do not participate in any political activities. Period.


