Here are 13 charities everyone should know about. They are in no specific order.

1. Compassion International Child sponsorship against poverty

2. The Voice of the Martyrs Assistance and support for persecuted Christians

3. Blood:Water Mission Fighting HIV/AIDS and water crisis

4. The Salvation Army Changing lives in local communities

5. Samaritan's Purse Assistance to victims of disaster, disease, poverty, famine, and war

6. Mercury One Humanitarian aid, disaster relief efforts, and education initiatives

7. St. Jude Finding cures and helping children

8. Direct Relief Improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty

9. Kids Alive International Child sponsorship against poverty

10. World Vision International Child sponsorship against poverty

11. Covenant House Opening doors for homeless youth including LGBTQ

12. The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation Fighting AIDS through humanitarian services

13. Polaris Project Freedom from human trafficking

Charity Navigator is a website where you can learn more about specific charities and their financial plans as well as get advice on which charities are spending your money wisely. I believe the best work is done locally, but national and international organizations are often doing great work as well and deserve our support.

It's important that we are generous givers and remember that no financial gift is too small to help those less fortunate. Also, local churches are usually the first on the ground when it comes to helping those in need, so let's not forget to help them both financially and by volunteering our time.

"The Lord blesses everyone who freely gives food to the poor." Proverbs 22:9