What and Why - True Charity

What is True Charity?

True Charity exists to lead a nationwide movement of churches and nonprofits committed to effective, dignity-preserving solutions to poverty. Our growing coalition helps organizations move beyond handouts that trap people in dependency to empower people, instead, toward self-sufficiency, creating lasting change in their lives and communities.

Our Story

In 2000, James and Marsha Whitford opened the doors of Watered Gardens Ministries in Joplin, Missouri. What began as a heartfelt mission to serve the poor quickly faced a challenge: while they were serving thousands, true transformation was rare. Realizing that perpetual crisis relief wasn’t enough, they shifted to a model that emphasized personal responsibility, relationship, and accountability—empowering individuals to be part of their own solution.

This shift led to fewer people seeking help but more sustainable results for those who stayed. Inspired by this transformation, True Charity was born, providing tools and strategies for charities to adopt more effective, long-term solutions.

Real Compassion. Real Results.

Our Mission: True Charity exists to champion a resurgence of civil society in the fight against poverty.

Our Approach

The Three Pillars of True Charity

Voluntarily Funded

True charity is a voluntary act of compassion, building meaningful connections between giver and recipient—something tax-funded programs cannot replicate.

Challenge-Oriented

Charity should empower people. We promote work opportunities, personal accountability, and goal-setting into our programs, helping individuals regain control of their lives.

Outcome-Driven

We measure results, not just activity. Stable housing, employment, education, and personal growth are outcomes to strive for, ensuring real impact.

In the Media

More and more people are becoming aware of our innovative models and the way we can help people like you to do more effective charity work.

RealClear Policy

Researchers Gave $5,700 to Homeless People. Misunderstanding Ensued.The Importance of Measuring What Matters

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Nathan Mayo
Vice President of Operations & Programs

Washington Examiner

The Equality Act Could Force Faith-Based Organizations to Close Their Doors

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James Whitford
C0-founder & CEO

RealClear Policy

Subsidizing Isolation in a Global Pandemic

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Savannah Aleckson
Events Director

Washington Examiner

For Those Living in Poverty, Social Distance Is Not a New Problem

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Avery West
Member Engagement Director

Why True Charity?

Poverty is complex. It’s about more than money; it’s about relationships, skills, and opportunities. Handouts alone cannot address these deeper, long-term issues. Our model focuses on personal involvement, relationships, and empowerment—fostering true transformation.

Your Partners in Driving Change

Our team is dedicated to strengthening your fight against poverty. With decades of experience in effective, dignity-preserving charity, we are committed to helping you create lasting solutions that transform lives.

Meet the Team

Cutting-Edge Insights

We strive to provide the most up-to-date information and innovative solutions in addressing poverty. Learn about the biblical principles and visionary strategies that are involved by signing up for our training and educational resources.

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