Holiday on September 5, 2026 — International Day of Charity
On September 5, the world celebrates International Day of Charity—a day the UN has dedicated to helping others, volunteering, and supporting people facing difficult circumstances. The date was not chosen at random: it was on September 5, 1997, that Mother Teresa, one of the most famous philanthropists of the 20th century, passed away. In 2026, this day falls on a Saturday.
International Day of Charity is observed annually on September 5. It is an official UN international observance designed to remind us of the importance of helping those in need. In 2026, International Day of Charity falls on Saturday, September 5. In the UN calendar of international days, this date appears alongside other important days dedicated to humanitarian and social issues.
However, it is not a holiday in the traditional sense. There is no set script or single tradition that all countries must follow. The main idea behind the day is not just to talk about kindness, but to encourage people to actually help others. The UN suggests using this day for volunteer initiatives, fundraising, educational events, and other forms of support. Help can take many forms—from a financial donation to a few hours of volunteer work.
When Was International Day of Charity Established?
International Day of Charity is a relatively recent observance. The UN General Assembly officially established it on December 17, 2012. The decision was enshrined in Resolution A/RES/67/105. The document was adopted without a vote. In it, the UN recognized the role of philanthropy in addressing humanitarian crises and human suffering.
Several countries joined the initiative to establish the day. Among the sponsors of the draft resolution were, in particular, Hungary, Albania, Australia, Chile, Croatia, India, Italy, South Korea, Romania, Ukraine, and other countries. The UN emphasized that philanthropy is important not only as financial aid. It can also promote solidarity, mutual understanding, and dialogue among people of different cultures and religions. That is why this day is not just about large charitable foundations. The concept is also intended for ordinary people, civic organizations, volunteers, and local communities.
Why September 5 Was Chosen
The date is associated with Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Mother Teresa was born in 1910 as Agnes Gonxhe Bojaxhiu. In 1928, she traveled to India, where she later dedicated her life to helping the poorest people. In 1950, she founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta. The organization was dedicated to helping the poor, the sick, orphans, and people on the brink of death.
Mother Teresa worked in India for decades, and later her organization began opening shelters and aid centers in other countries as well. In 1979, she received the Nobel Peace Prize for her work helping people living in poverty and suffering from harsh conditions. Mother Teresa died on September 5, 1997, at the age of 87. The UN General Assembly designated the anniversary of her death as International Day of Charity. At the same time, the UN established this day not merely to honor one person. The resolution explicitly states the importance of the work carried out by charitable organizations and individuals around the world.
What Does Charity Mean?
Charity is often associated primarily with money. But in reality, helping others can take many more forms. A person can donate funds to a charitable foundation, buy essential items for people in difficult circumstances, or help pay for medical treatment. Another option is to volunteer and dedicate your own time to a good cause. Other ways to help include donating blood, collecting food, clothing, or hygiene supplies, supporting animal shelters, assisting the elderly, or participating in community initiatives. It’s also important to note that philanthropy doesn’t have to be a one-time act. People can regularly support a specific organization with small donations or provide ongoing assistance as volunteers.
The UN emphasizes precisely this broad understanding of philanthropy. It refers to voluntary actions that help alleviate human suffering and support people and communities facing difficult circumstances.
How This Day Is Observed
There is no single official tradition for International Day of Charity, as there is, for example, for national holidays. Instead, the UN encourages the organization of charity fundraisers, fairs, auctions, gatherings, educational events, and volunteer drives. Such events can be held by both large organizations and small local initiatives.
For example, a company can organize a fundraiser for a charitable foundation. A school or university can hold a fair or a volunteer day. A nonprofit organization can organize a lecture on social issues and ways to help. Ordinary people can also get involved without organizing large-scale events. You can make a donation to a reputable charity, donate essential items, assist volunteers, or simply volunteer your time for a good cause. The main thing is that the help is genuine and voluntary.
Charity During Humanitarian Crises
The UN places particular emphasis on the role of philanthropy during crises, when government resources may be insufficient. Wars, natural disasters, epidemics, and major humanitarian crises can leave millions of people without shelter, food, medical care, or access to basic services.
In such situations, charitable and volunteer organizations often step in where government agencies are physically unable to reach all those affected. The UN also raises donations and resources for humanitarian programs on its own. Money and support are needed to help people affected by wars, natural disasters, and other emergencies. At the same time, charity should not replace the work of the government or solve all social problems solely through donations. It can be an important part of a broader aid system that includes government programs, international support, and the work of civil society organizations and volunteers.
Interesting Facts About Charity Day
International Charity Day has been observed since 2013. Its first official date, following the adoption of a UN resolution, was September 5, 2013.
The date is linked to the death of Mother Teresa. She died on September 5, 1997, which is why this day became a symbolic date for international philanthropy.
Ukraine was among the initiators of the initiative. Ukraine was part of the group of countries that submitted a draft resolution to establish International Charity Day.
The resolution was adopted without a vote. On December 17, 2012, the UN General Assembly adopted the document unanimously, without a formal vote.
This is not just a day for large foundations. The UN explicitly calls for participation not only from states and international organizations, but also from civil society groups and individuals.
Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize. In 1979, the Nobel Committee recognized her work in helping people living in poverty and under difficult conditions.
Why This Day Is Important for Ukraine
For Ukraine, the topic of charity is particularly relevant due to the full-scale war. Volunteer and charitable organizations are helping the military, civilians, internally displaced persons, children, the elderly, and those affected by Russian attacks. Over the years of this major war, donations and volunteering have become part of everyday life for many Ukrainians. People raise money for medical equipment, vehicles, drones, communication devices, evacuations, housing reconstruction, and humanitarian aid.
But charity isn’t limited to large-scale fundraisers. It also includes helping neighbors, supporting local volunteers, donating blood, sharing essential items, or participating in community initiatives. That is why the meaning of International Charity Day can be summed up in a simple idea: help doesn’t have to be grand to make a difference.
How to Get Involved on September 5
You can celebrate this day without any special ceremonies. You can support a trusted charity, make a small donation, or purchase essential items for people who need them.
Another option is to donate your time. For example, join a volunteer drive, help out at an animal shelter, visit a lonely elderly person, or support a local initiative. If you’re unable to help financially, you can share information about a reputable fundraiser or tell others about an organization you trust.
At the same time, it’s important to verify exactly who you’re giving money or items to. Charity should be not only sincere but also responsible. International Charity Day serves as a reminder of just that: helping others can start with something very simple—the desire not to remain indifferent.
