Modest Needs gives small amounts of money to pay off unexpected expenses for people with an urgent need. Generally such people are above the poverty line, but without Modest Need’s help, may lose their independence.

Typical requests filled by Modest Needs are requests for repairs to a car that’s necessary to get to work, one or two rent payments, medical and dental bills, etc.

The payments are sent not to the individual, but to the person or company to whom the bill is owed; directly to the landlord, doctor’s office, or automotive repair shop.

Additionally, many people who are the recipients of Modest Needs donations become donors themselves after they get back on their feet.