Americans Turn to Online Fundraising for Basic Necessities as Financial Pressures Mount

A new report from GoFundMe reveals a sharp increase in Americans using crowdfunding platforms to cover essential living expenses, highlighting growing financial strain across the country.

The company reported Tuesday that fundraisers for basic necessities rose 20% in 2025 compared to the previous year. Food and housing costs—both of which have continued to surge nationwide—topped the list of most common funding requests.

GoFundMe CEO Tim Cadogan said the data demonstrates that many people are finding it increasingly difficult to keep pace with the rising cost of living.

The findings show this is not a short-term trend. The number of essential-needs fundraisers has climbed steadily for three consecutive years in the United States, underscoring the sustained financial pressure facing households nationwide.

The report provides a window into economic hardship that may not be fully captured by traditional metrics, as more Americans seek community support to meet day-to-day expenses.