What better way to spend the holidays than to fund the fight for a more just world?
Opt out of over-buying this holiday season and support these justice-driven organizations changing the world. These exceptional groups are fighting for humans, the environment, and animals, and we're all for it. Here are 13 vegan nonprofits to donate to this season!
Food Empowerment Project
The Food Empowerment Project fights for all humans and nonhuman animals in the food system. From advocating veganism for the animals and fighting food apartheid to championing the rights of farm workers and addressing child labor in the chocolate industry, this Xicanx-led organization reiterates that just because something is vegan doesn't mean it's cruelty-free.
Chilis On Wheels
This food justice organization is making veganism accessible across the country. With chapters in the Bay Area, Washington DC, and New York, they organize meal shares, food demos, clothing drives, and distribute free dog food for unhoused community members. In addition, they provide a live 21-day mentorship program that assists with cost-effective meal planning to help make the transition to veganism stress-free.
Afro-Vegan Society
The Afro-Vegan Society creates its own corner of activism by uplifting those often overlooked in mainstream veganism. By centering Afro-vegans, they've created lists of Black-owned restaurants, bakeries, food trucks, and more. They also offer a host of delicious cooking demos to make plant-based cooking more accessible and approachable.
Plants On Wheels
Plants on Wheels is taking food justice into its own hands. The New York-based organization works toward fighting food insecurity and poverty across the five boroughs. They supply warm meals and clothing through their food and clothing drives, where supporters can donate to fund a healthy food care package and/or a free coat!Â
APEX Advocacy
With a grassroots approach to veganism, APEX Advocacy paves the way for BIPOC individuals to join the movement. The Black-led organization created its first Pre-Animal Activist Week. This immersive and educational boot camp teaches vegans and vegan-curious individuals how to organize street activism, workshops, and more.
Sea Shepherd
Sea Shepherd is a pioneering organization fighting for all marine life, from sharks to krill. By partnering with national governments, they've achieved victories in ending IUU (illegal, unreported, and unregulated) fishing vessels. This extraordinary group is working toward a global goal of protecting 30 percent of the oceans by creating marine protected areas by 2030.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a leading conservation organization due to its lifesaving rehabilitation of rhinos and elephants, protection of wildlife, and the preservation of habitats across East Africa. Some of the organization’s efforts include providing water relief from limited rain and drought, safeguarding wildlife areas, and operating over 23 anti-poaching teams.
Farm Sanctuary
This bi-coastal sanctuary fosters a compassionate environment for rescued farmed animals. Chickens, sheep, cows, goats, turkeys, and pigs are met with joy, warmth, and love due to the sanctuary’s outstanding efforts in giving them a life to thrive in. These beautiful creatures will remind you why veganism is more than a diet but a lifestyle that fights to end suffering in factory farms.
C.A.R.E
Companions and Animals for Reform and Equity (C.A.R.E) rebuilds animal welfare for people and their companion animals. Some essential programs include Community Animal Care, an initiative that helps marginalized families keep their pets at home through education and resources. Additionally, they offer a DIRECTfund that provides monetary donations to families struggling with access to veterinary care.
The Raven Corps
The Raven Corps is a youth-driven organization aiming to create a more compassionate and just future for all beings. By advocating through a total liberation lens, they welcome changemakers, leaders, and organizers to partake in various "Operations" campaigns targeting systemic issues within our food system. These actions include Mind Over Milk, Zoomers to Boomers, and Growing Beyond The Recipe.
Vegans of LA: Food Bank for Vegans
In partnership with United University Church, Gwenna Hunter founded LA's first brick-and-mortar vegan food bank. Along with offering nutritious foods and rescued items to community members, they advocate for long-term food security across the city. Vegans of LA operates on the third Thursday of every month from 8am to 10am.
Lunch On Me
Lunch On Me's (LOM) community-oriented approach to veganism is one-of-a-kind. They transform plant-based leftovers from organic markets into delicious, high-quality meals distributed to LA's Skid Row six days a week. While nourishing unhoused folks, LOM also offers yoga classes, community parties, and healing gatherings for women.
Shark Trust
Sharks don't infest our waters—they live there! Shark Trust works extensively to protect all sharks and rays. Through various campaigns and educational efforts, they teach about sharks and their vital role in ocean health. From advocacy to policy change, they ensure these incredible beings' long-term conservation.