Asking for money can feel awkward, even when it’s for a good cause. But donation texts are still worth sending: they can help you send authentic messages that encourage donors to join your cause.
No need to stress about starting from scratch. Here are 55 text donation message examples to help you ask for donations in almost any situation. You’ll also learn how to automate these messages to spend less time copy-pasting and more time building stronger donor relationships.
What are text donation messages and how do they work?
Text donation messages are short text messages that encourage recipients to donate to your cause.
There are two ways to do this: text-to-give, which lets donors give through their phone bill, or text-to-donate, which takes your recipients to a mobile donation form.
Here’s how both methods work:
- Get consent to text your potential donors with proper opt-in permission.
- Write a donation request message that includes a secure donation link.
- Encourage them to click the link and make a donation.
And that’s it — you’re ready to rumble.
Before you hit send: How to set yourself up for success
As you start scripting a text donation message, be sure you’re following these best practices:
- Clarify your campaign goal: What dollar amount are you striving for? How many donors will you need to make this a success?
- Using generic link shorteners: US carriers may perceive texts with generic link shorteners like bit.ly as spam and block them. Instead, shorten your link by removing https:// or www. or using a branded link shortener like Cuttly.
- Send texts based on your recipient’s time zone: Under TCPA guidelines, it’s illegal to send promotional texts outside 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in your recipient’s time zone. On Quo, you can schedule texts to send during their local daytime window.
- Identify your promotion channels before sending any texts: Is this donation ask only going out via SMS, or are you also emailing supporters and posting on social media? Plan your promotion strategy ahead of time to keep your messaging consistent and avoid repeating yourself or overwhelming donors.
- Send texts with a clear CTA: Donors need to know exactly what you want them to do — and what will happen when they do it. Be specific: say how much you’re asking for, like “give $10 now,” and explain what their donation will support, like “…to fund one night of shelter.”
- Create a clean, mobile-friendly donation page: Twenty-five percent of nonprofit donations are from mobile users, and 57% of all nonprofit online traffic comes from mobile phones. Here’s an example of a well-optimized donations page:
37 text message examples for donation requests
Here are 37 text donation messages that encourage recipients to join your cause.
📌 P.S., bookmark this guide so you can pull up these templates whenever you need some inspiration.
Short and effective donation SMS messages
These short and sweet messages are great for grabbing attention quickly, like if your character count is limited or if you’re sending a message during lunch or daily commutes.
Hi [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization name]. Can you help us hit our goal by midnight? Every [$] gift gets us closer. Donate here: [link]. To opt out, reply STOP.
[Organization name]: Your support changes lives. Your donation to [cause] could [impact]. Donate here: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
[Organization name]: [Donor name], we’re raising funds to [impact]. Donate and join the cause: [link]. Reply END to stop msgs.
Personalized text donation message examples
If you have key donor info — like a name, past donation amount, or cause they supported — you might go the extra mile to personalize their message. A personalized text message can feel more thoughtful and relevant, which can help donors feel seen and more compelled to contribute.
Here are some examples:
[Organization name]: Hi [donor name], your [$] gift in [month] helped launch our [program]. We’d love to have your support again for [cause]! Learn more: [link]. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.
[Donor name], this is [sender name] from [organization name]. Based on your past support, we knew you were the one to ask about supporting [cause]. Learn more about how you can help: [link]. Reply END to stop msgs.
[Donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization name]. Your donation of [$] fed [#] families in [season]. Want to do it again? Donate here: [link]. To opt out, reply END.
💡Pro Tip: If you need to personalize a large number of donation messages, you might want to consider a shared SMS inbox. This lets everyone on your team draft, customize, and send messages to multiple recipients from the same number so you can scale your approach.
Urgent text donation messages examples
Running an emergency or time-sensitive campaign? From natural disasters to urgent medical needs, here are some templates that create a sense of urgency.
[Organization name]: We’re running out of time, [donor name]. [Campaign] is wrapping up in just [time]. Give today and help us reach our goal: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization]. We wouldn’t ask for your support unless we knew we could count on you. [Cause] needs our help right now. Donate today: [link]. Reply END to opt out.
[Organization name]: Today only: last chance to contribute to [cause], donor [name]. Donate now and make an impact on [cause]. Reply STOP to opt out.
💡 Pro Tip: Attaching rich media like images to urgent request texts can help encourage emotional connections and drive more donations.
Quo can help you do this with free SMS and MMS in the US and Canada on every plan. That way, you can easily add photos or files that clarify your mission and emphasize donor impact without worrying about extra costs.
Creative text donation messages
If you’re sending texts during a popular campaign day — or just want to break through the noise of social media or online fundraising — a touch of originality can go a long way. Here are three creative templates to get the creative juices flowing:
[Organization name]: We’re not kitten: these rescues need help! 🐱 Can we count on your help? Pounce on the donate button here: [link]. Reply END to opt out.
Hey [donor name], this is [sender name] from [organization name]. This is nacho average fundraiser! 🌮 Help sponsor our [team] during a special Taco Tuesday event with a gift of [$]: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
[Organization name]: Help us lighten the load for [population] in [city]. A [$] donation covers detergent and dignity for one unhoused neighbor: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
Examples of text donation messages with a clear call-to-action
You can use these messages to maximize conversions by removing any guesswork about what donors should do next. For example:
Hi [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization name]. We’re raising awareness for [cause] and would love to have your support. A [$] donation is enough to [outcome]. Give today and change the lives of [population]: [link]. Opt out with STOP.
[Organization name]: We need your help to end [situation] in [city], [donor name]! Make a difference in your community with a [$] donation today: [link]. To unsubscribe, text END.
Recurring donation request examples
Want to encourage your donors to give more regularly? Here are some messages that might help with donor outreach and retention:
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization]. Just [$]/month gives a [population] [items] all year long. Will you become a monthly donor? Learn more: [link]. Opt out with END.
[Organization name]: Small give, big impact. [$]/month keeps [X] locations stocked for [X] months. The little things add up, [donor name]. Give today: [link]. To unsubscribe, text END.
[Organization name]: Hey [donor name], want to make your support go further with a monthly donation? It takes 1 minute to set up your tax-deductible gift. Start here: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
Disaster relief donation message examples
You can use these messages to rally support after a natural disaster, especially if donors are seeking ways to contribute and want fast, trustworthy ways to make an impact:
[Organization name]: Urgent, [city] is facing severe flooding. [Organization] is delivering food and blankets now. Your donation of [$] would help [#] of people. [Link]. Opt out with STOP.
[Organization name]: [Donor name], Hurricane [X] displaced [#] families last night. Your donation can provide shelter and hot meals. Donate now: [link]. To stop msgs, reply END.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization]. We’re on the ground in [location]. Every [$] helps us deliver meals and supplies to [cause]. Support relief efforts here: [Link]. Opt out with END.
Event-based donation request examples
Whether you’re hosting a gala, an auction, or a walk-a-thon, you can use these messages to encourage people to give as part of — or instead of — attending:
[Sender name] from [organization name] here! Can’t make it to our Spring Gala, [donor name]? You can still support the cause with a donation. Support [organization] here: [link]. Unsubscribe from msgs w/ STOP.
[Organization name]: Hey [donor name], every dollar raised at our annual [event] goes to fund [cause] Can we count on your support? Donate today: [link]. Opt out with END.
[Organization name]: We’re celebrating [years], [donor name]!🎉 Come support us during our anniversary event on [date/time]. Can’t attend? Donate here: [link]. Reply END to stop msgs.
💡Related: How to send an event reminder text
Nonprofit donation message examples
These general fundraising messages can apply to any type of nonprofit, from animal shelters to community clinics and everything in between.
It’s [sender name] from [organization], [donor name]. Your support keeps [organization] open. Every donation helps us provide [care] to someone in need. Join us in building a stronger community: [link]. Opt out with STOP.
[Organization name]: Your donation will help fund housing services in [city]. Will you stand with us? Chip in today: [link]. To unsubscribe, reply END.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization]. We’re a small but mighty team offering [items] to [cause]. Every dollar counts. Donate here: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
Text message donation examples for a school fundraiser
Classroom supplies and field trips and extracurriculars, oh my! These templates can help you raise money for school-related causes.
[School name]: The [club] is raising funds for this year’s [event], [donor name]! Every dollar helps us cover [necessities]. Donate here: [link]. Reply END to opt out.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [school name]. Our PTA is raising [$] for new [necessities]. Would you be willing to help? You can learn more here: [link]. Reply END to opt out.
[School name]: Let’s send every 5th grader to science camp! We’re almost at our fundraising goal of [$]. Can you help us close the gap? Donate here: [link]. Opt out with END.
Matching gift donation text examples
These templates can help campaigns that have a time-limited match opportunity, like if a donor or sponsor is doubling contributions for a set time.
Hello, [donor name]. It’s [sender name] from [organization].Your gift = double the impact today! Thanks to [donor], every gift will be matched 1:1 until [time/date] up to [$]. Donate here: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
[Organization name]: We have a rare match opportunity: [company] will double all donations made to [org] today. Help us reach our [$] goal: [link]. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.
[Organization name]: Today only: [person] is matching every gift given to [cause] before midnight! Donate until [time] and double your impact for [cause]. Are you in [donor name]? [Link]. Reply END to stop msgs.
Giving Tuesday donation request texts
If you want to stand out on a high-volume donation day — especially when inboxes are crowded and donors are already primed to give — your text needs to be timely, direct, and compelling.
Here are a couple of templates explaining why your cause matters.
[Organization name]: It’s Giving Tuesday, [donor name]! Each donation helps us provide [item] to [community]. Our goal is [$] by midnight. Join us: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
[Organization name]: We’ve served [target population] this year. With your help, we’ll serve even more before the year ends. Donate here for Giving Tuesday: [link]. Reply STOP to end msgs.
Holiday-specific donation text messages
Sixty-two percent of Americans make donations during the holidays. So your messaging needs to cut through all the noise. Here are some holiday text message examples.
[Sender name] from [organization name] here! Give the gift of warmth this Xmas by helping us provide warm meals and coats to local families. Just [$] can make a difference this holiday season. Get details: [link]. Reply END to opt out.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization name]. We’re putting together 100 meal kits for families in need this Thanksgiving. Will you sponsor a meal in someone’s name? Learn more: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
[Organization name]: Before the ball drops, help us reach our year-end goal. Donate to start our mission to [cause] off on the right foot: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
9 donation follow-up texts for thanking and updating donors
No need to wait until your next campaign to connect with donors. Instead, use these follow-up texts to write thank-you messages, build trust, and provide transparent progress updates that strengthen donor relationships.
Donation goal progress update examples
You can use donation goal progress updates to show your donors the impact of their generosity on your mission. This makes it easier to build momentum and keep donors engaged, even if it’s been weeks since submitting their donation.
[Organization name]: We’re halfway there, [donor name]! Thanks to your support, we’ve raised [%] of our goal to support [cause]. It’s thanks to donors like you that [organization] can continue to support [cause]. To unsubscribe, reply STOP.
[Organization name]: [donor name], we just hit our goal at [organization]! Your generosity helped us raise [$] for [cause]. Thank you for making a real difference in [city]. Reply END to opt out.
[Organization name]: Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name], [position] at [organization]. Just wanted to say thank you. We’re [%] of the way to our goal, in no small part thanks to your donation. See our progress here: [link]. Reply END to end msgs.
Fundraising campaign impact update texts
Now that you’ve met your goal, it’s time to close the loop with donors. Here are some templates showing your campaign’s real-world outcomes, like the meals, supplies, or shelter your donors funded.
[Organization name]: Update, [donor name]: because of your donation, [#] families received [items] this week. Thank you for helping us [impact]. Reply STOP to end.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization]. We wanted to let you know we raised [$] in [time period], which means 500 new [items] distributed across the city. See pics: [link]. Opt out with END.
[Organization name]: We did it! The [building] expansion is underway. Our [population] will have more space thanks to your support. Unsubscribe with END.
Thank you for your donation messages
A quick thank-you text can go a long way, especially if it’s sent shortly after a donor makes a contribution. Whether it’s the donor’s first gift or their fifth, these templates can help.
[Organization name]: Thanks so much for your donation, [donor name]! We’re so grateful for your support. You can track our goal progress here: [link]. To unsubscribe from notifications, reply STOP.
Hi [donor name], I’m [sender name] from [organization]. Your [$] gift to [campaign] just came through. All of us at [organization] want to say thank you for being part of the solution. To stop receiving msgs, reply END.
Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name] from [organization]. I wanted to personally thank you for your donation of [$]. Your support means [#] more students get supplies this week! Reply END to opt out.
9 text message examples for re-engaging or nurturing donors
Your donors want to build a relationship with your organization, rather than being asked for money all the time.
Here are some options for sharing success stories, opportunities, and invites to keep your organization top of mind and bring past donors back into the fold.
Fundraising event success story text examples
These templates show the human side of your impact by spotlighting specific people, communities, or animals helped by the donor’s gift.
[Organization name]: Because of your support, [donation recipient] is now the first in her family to attend college. We just wanted to say thanks for making this happen. Get the details here: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
[Organization name]: Hey [donor name], we just wrapped up our [project]. [X] families are back home now. We couldn’t have done it without you! Reply END to stop msgs.
[Sender name] here from [organization name]. Good news [donor name]: [dog] (a pup we rescued) just got adopted! 🐾 Thanks for helping us give her a second chance. To opt out, reply STOP.
Text examples for re-engaging donors with a new campaign
Re-engagement texts can help you reach out to past donors when you’re launching a new initiative tied to something they’ve supported before. Just make sure to stay donor-focused. Remind recipients why they gave before, then give them a chance to do it again.
[Organization name]: Hey [donor name], it’s [sender name]! We’ve just kicked off a new campaign to expand [program]. We thought of you immediately. Want to see what we’re building? [link]. Opt out with END.
[Donor name], you helped [organization name] [impact] last winter. Today, even more need our help. Learn how you can make a difference again: [link]. Reply END to stop.
[Organization name]: Thanks to your generous donation, [program] grew last year. See what can happen with your continued support:[link]. To stop, reply END.
Donor appreciation event or virtual invite examples
Your donors aren’t the only ones who can give! Nurture donor relationships by giving something back in appreciation. Here are some templates for inviting donors to behind-the-scenes tours, galas, thank-you receptions, and similar appreciation events.
[Organization name]: Hi [donor name]! We’re throwing an appreciation party to celebrate donors for our [program], and we’d love to see you there. RSVP here to join: [link]. Opt out with STOP.
[Organization name]: [donor name], join us for a private evening with [organization] to honor the real impact you’ve made for [cause]. RSVP here: [link]. To stop msgs, reply STOP.
[Organization name]: Want a peek behind the curtain? We’re hosting a virtual tour + Q&A to show how your donation is changing lives. Save a spot here: [link]. Reply STOP to opt out.
How to write compelling text donation messages: Common mistakes to avoid
As you start customizing these templates, be sure to avoid these common missteps:
- Not respecting SMS compliance rules: Ask customers for consent with a clear opt-in process. Then, make sure your initial message identifies your and your business. You should also provide opt-out instructions so recipients can choose not to hear from you again. Remember: violating SMS compliance rules can cost $500 to $1,500 per message.
- Not keeping texts concise: Stick to one core message and aim to keep your text under 160 characters. This prevents texts from splitting into multiple segments and keeps things focused.
- Not sending follow-ups or re-engagement texts: People might want to donate, but forget when life gets busy. Follow-ups bring your cause back to their attention. Just don’t send too many too quickly.
How to automate sending donation request messages on Quo
When you start to outgrow manually sending donation requests, you can put messaging on autopilot with Quo’s text automation tools. This makes it easier to scale your reach and gather more support for your cause.
One way to do this is with snippets, or pre-written templates. You can save any go-to message as a template and pull it up quickly by typing “/snippets” in any conversation thread. Then, all you have to do is personalize it and hit send.
Another option is to schedule texts so they’re sent at the right moment, even if you’re not at your desk. This option is helpful for seasonal donation requests, including events like Giving Tuesday or end-of-month campaigns when timing really matters.
In Quo, simply type your message and tap on the clock icon. Specify the date, time, and time zone. Then, tap Condition and select “even if they message first.”
Now you can send automated texts in your donors’ time zones without waiting for the perfect moment to press send. Set it and forget it.
Start texting donors today with Quo (formerly OpenPhone)
Asking for donations can feel awkward. But the right donation request templates and business phone system can make it a whole lot easier. Quo simplifies messaging with your donors by offering text message features you can get on every plan. Here’s how:
- Snippets, or templated messages, speed up your communication and keep it consistent.
- Scheduled texts let you queue up messages in the recipient’s time zone.
- Auto-replies help you respond to missed calls, texts, and voicemails and set expectations.
- Shared inboxes let everyone on your team read and reply to messages and calls from the same business phone number.
- CRM integrations help you sync call and text logs in the tools you already use.
Sign up today for a seven-day free trial of Quo and start building better donor relationships.
FAQs
Every fundraising text message should identify the organization, provide a clear ask, and have a link to donate or learn more. Keep the writing short, concise, and donor-focused. You can also try creating templates for common text donation messages so they’re faster to send.
Using text donation messages or email donation appeals mostly depends on your donors’ preferences and the type of message you’re sending.
Text is good for:
–Higher visibility: Text messages show up on lock screens and are less likely to be ignored.
– Fast reads: People are more likely to check texts more frequently than their emails, so SMS might make more sense during live events or limited-time donation matches.
– Available on every mobile device: Text messaging doesn’t require opening an inbox or app. Donors can take immediate action to read and donate.
Email is good for:
– Longer storytelling: You can use this to set up more context around your mission, campaign, and fundraising efforts.
– More visual formatting: You might use branded headers, photos, and structured layouts to build donor engagement.
– Formal communications: Useful for receipts, year-end giving reports, and messages from leadership.
