Charitable giving grew slightly in 2003, with religious organizations receiving more money than any other group, according to a national survey released June 21.
The Giving USA report said that donations by individuals, foundations, corporations and estates increased 3 percent in 2003 to nearly $241 billion, up from $234 billion in 2002. The survey was done by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University and was based on voluntary reports by 1,369 organizations that responded.
The foundation said it was “surprised” at the increase because of concerns that changes in the estate tax law would dampen charitable giving.
Giving USA attributed last year’s increase to higher household income, a stronger stock market and better corporate profits.
Religious organizations were the largest recipients of charitable donations last year, receiving more than $86 billion- a 2 percent increase from the previous year.
(RNS)
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