Text donations made easy: best practices, tips & examples

Think about it: most of us check our text messages almost immediately. In fact, text messages have a 98% open rate, while emails often get buried in crowded inboxes. When you send a fundraising message via text, you know your donors will see it. And with just a few taps, they can complete a donation—no forms to print, no long checkout process, no hassle.

We’ve seen how text fundraising can make a meaningful impact on the way nonprofits raise money. At Harness, we’ve helped organizations of all sizes boost donor engagement, increase recurring gifts, and simplify the giving experience. In fact, the average text donation is $107, which shows just how effective it can be when you meet donors where they already are—their phones. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to set up a successful text-to-give campaign—from writing compelling short donation messages to promoting your cause on social media and tracking results. By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable plan to raise more money and turn one-time donors into lifelong supporters.

What is text fundraising and how does it work?

Text fundraising—sometimes called text-to-give or text-to-donate—is one of the easiest ways to raise money. It lets donors give to your organization with a quick text message, removing the usual barriers that slow down donations. No long forms, no logging into accounts, just a few taps on a phone.

Here’s how it works:

1. A supporter texts a keyword (like "GIVE" or "DONATE") to a specific phone number.
2. They receive an automatic reply with a link to a donation page.
3. They enter their payment details, confirm the donation, and—just like that—they’ve made a difference.

Once a donor has given once, many platforms save their payment info, making future donations even faster. This means that if they want to give again, all they have to do is send another text—no extra steps needed.

Text fundraising isn’t just convenient for donors; it’s also a game changer for nonprofits. Instead of waiting for supporters to visit your website or open an email, you can reach them instantly on a device they check all day long. Plus, with automation tools, you can send follow-ups, thank-you messages, and updates—keeping donors engaged long after their first gift.

How to launch a successful text-to-give fundraising campaign

Setting up a text-to-give campaign is more than just picking a platform and sending a message. To raise real money, you need a plan. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Set clear fundraising goals

Before you send that first text, ask yourself: What am I trying to achieve? Are you raising money for a specific fundraising event? Trying to boost monthly donations? Covering an urgent need? Your goal will shape everything—from your message to your promotion strategy.

Make your goals specific and measurable. Instead of saying, "We need to raise money for our food pantry," try, "We need to raise $10,000 by the end of the month to provide 5,000 meals." A clear goal gives supporters something concrete to rally around.

2. Choose the right text donation platform

Not all text to give platforms are created equal. Some process payments directly through a donor’s phone bill, while others link to a donation page. Some offer automation tools to send reminders and thank-you messages.

When picking a platform, consider:

• Ease of use: Can donors give in just a few taps?
• Fees: What percentage does the platform take from each donation?
• Integration: Does it sync with your donor database or CRM?
• Automation: Can you send follow-ups and track engagement?

3. Craft compelling text donation messages

Your text message is the first thing donors see, so it needs to grab their attention and drive action—fast. The best short donation messages are clear, personal, and create a sense of urgency.

Keep it short and direct

People don’t read long texts. Get to the point quickly.

Instead of:
"Our organization is working to provide support for families in need, and we would appreciate your donation." (Too vague, no urgency.)

Try:
"Families need your help. Every $10 provides a hot meal. Give now: [link]." (Specific, emotional, and action-driven.)

Make it personal

If possible, include the donor’s first name or reference their past support. People are more likely to give when they feel a personal connection.

Example:
"Hi Sarah, you made an incredible impact last year. Will you help again? A $20 gift provides school supplies for one child. Donate here: [link]."

Create urgency

Donors are more likely to act when there’s a deadline or match opportunity.

Example:
"Only 24 hours left. A generous donor is matching every gift. Double your impact now: [link]."

Always include a clear call to action

Tell donors exactly what to do next.

• Give now: [link]
• Text HOPE to 55555 to donate
• Click the link to provide meals today: [link]

4. Optimize your donation form and page

Once a donor clicks your link, the last thing you want is for them to get frustrated and give up. A clunky or confusing donation form can stop even the most generous supporters from completing their gift. The goal is to make the process quick, simple, and seamless.

Make it mobile-friendly

Most text donations come from phones, so your donation page must be built for small screens. Avoid tiny text, slow-loading images, or long forms that force donors to scroll endlessly. Keep everything clean, easy to read, and optimized for mobile devices.

Limit the number of fields

Every extra step increases the chance that a donor will abandon the form. Ask for only the essentials:

• Name
• Email (for receipts and follow-ups)
• Payment details
• Donation amount

If you want more details, you can always collect them later through a follow-up email.

Offer preset donation amounts

Help donors decide faster by giving them suggested amounts instead of making them type in a number. For example:

• $10 – Provides a meal for a family
• $25 – Covers a week of school supplies
• $50 – Supports emergency relief efforts

These options guide giving behavior and encourage larger donations.

Include a recurring donation option

Many donors want to give regularly but won’t take the extra step to set it up. Make it easy by adding a simple checkbox:

✔ "Make this a monthly donation"

Even better, highlight why recurring donations matter. For example:
"A monthly gift of $25 provides meals for a child all year long."

Keep the call to action clear

Your final button should stand out and use direct language. Instead of generic text like "Submit," try:

• Donate Now
• Give Today
• Make an Impact

5. Promote your text fundraising campaign

A great text-to-give setup won’t raise money if no one knows about it. Promotion is just as important as the campaign itself. The more places you share your text donation option, the more likely people are to give.

Use social media to spread the word

Social media is one of the fastest ways to reach donors. Post your text-to-give keyword and phone number often, and make sure it’s easy to find in your bio or pinned posts. Try different types of content:

• Quick videos: Show how easy it is to donate via text.
• Impact stories: Highlight real people who benefit from donations.
• Urgent updates: Create countdowns or matching gift challenges.

Example:
"We’re $5,000 away from our goal. Text GIVE to 55555 and make an impact now!"

Add it to your website and email campaigns

Make sure your donation page and fundraising emails mention your text-to-give option. A few key places to include it:

• At the top of your homepage
• In donation appeal emails
• In your email signature

Example email snippet:
"Giving has never been easier. Text HOPE to 55555 to support families in need today."

Mention it at fundraising events

If you’re hosting a fundraising event, text giving should be part of your donation ask. Have a speaker introduce it, display the text-to-give number on screens, and include it in programs or signage.

Example:
"Want to support our mission? Text CHANGE to 55555 and donate in seconds."

Leverage influencers and community leaders

Ask board members, volunteers, or local influencers to share your text-to-give campaign with their networks. A single post from the right person can introduce your cause to hundreds or thousands of new potential donors.

Send text reminders

People get busy and forget. If someone has shown interest but hasn’t donated, a gentle follow-up can make a big difference.

Example reminder text:
"We’re so close to reaching our goal! There’s still time to give. Text HOPE to 55555 to donate now."

A well-promoted campaign means more eyes on your message and more donations coming in.

6. Track performance and improve results

Once your text-to-give campaign is live, tracking results is key. You need to know what’s working—and what isn’t—so you can adjust your strategy and raise even more.

Monitor key metrics

Your text donation platform should provide data on how your campaign is performing. Focus on:

• Total donations – How much have you raised so far?
• Conversion rate – What percentage of people who clicked your link actually completed a donation?
• Average donation amount – Are most people giving small gifts, or are larger donations coming in?
• Recurring donor sign-ups – How many people are opting to give monthly?
• Open and click-through rates – Are your texts being read? Are people clicking your donation page link?

Tracking these numbers helps you spot trends. If a certain short donation message gets more clicks, you’ll know to use similar wording in future campaigns.

Test different messages

Not every text will perform the same. Try sending different versions to small groups of donors and see which one gets the best response.

For example:

• Version A: "Your gift provides meals for families in need. Give now: [link]."
• Version B: "Hunger can’t wait. A $10 gift feeds a family tonight. Donate here: [link]."

If one gets more clicks and donations, you’ll know it’s the stronger message.

Adjust based on donor behavior

Look for patterns in your data. If donations drop off after the first text, you might need a follow-up reminder. If most donors give under $20, try adjusting your preset donation amounts.

You can also check what time of day donations come in. If most people give in the evening, schedule your texts to go out then for higher engagement.

Follow up and build relationships

The best fundraisers don’t just collect donations—they build donor loyalty. After someone gives, don’t stop the conversation. Send a thank-you text, share impact updates, and keep them engaged.

Example:
"Thanks for your generosity! Your gift is helping families in need. Stay connected to see the impact: [link]."

25 text donation message examples for every fundraising campaign

A great short donation message is clear, urgent, and easy to act on. Whether you're running an emergency appeal, a fundraising event, or a recurring giving campaign, your wording matters. Below are 25 text donation messages you can use or adapt for your nonprofit.

Emergency appeals

1. "Urgent: Families need food now. A $10 gift provides a meal. Give here: [link]."
2. "Disaster relief needed. Every dollar helps. Text HOPE to 55555 to give now."
3. "We’re running out of supplies. Your $25 donation can make a difference today: [link]."
4. "24-hour emergency match! Every gift doubles impact. Donate now: [link]."
5. "Act fast: Lives depend on it. Your donation today brings critical aid. Give here: [link]."

Recurring giving requests

6. "Make an impact all year long. A $15 monthly gift feeds a family every month. Sign up here: [link]."
7. "One-time gifts help, but monthly donors change lives. Join our giving circle today: [link]."
8. "Your support keeps us going. Become a monthly donor and help year-round: [link]."
9. "Every month, kids go to bed hungry. Your $20 monthly gift changes that. Start giving: [link]."
10. "Together, we can build lasting change. Set up a recurring donation in 30 seconds: [link]."

Fundraising events

11. "Join us at [Event Name]! Support our cause and make a difference. Get tickets here: [link]."
12. "Can’t make it to [Event Name]? You can still give! Text GIVE to 55555 to donate."
13. "Live from [Event Name]! Help us reach our goal by texting HOPE to 55555 to donate."
14. "Your ticket purchase fuels our mission. Grab yours today: [link]."
15. "Just $5 from you can help us hit our event goal. Text CHANGE to 55555 to give now."

Seasonal campaigns

16. "This holiday season, give the gift of hope. Donate today: [link]."
17. "Back to school! Help kids start the year with supplies. Give $10 now: [link]."
18. "Thanksgiving is around the corner. Provide a warm meal for a family: [link]."
19. "End-of-year giving is here! Your tax-deductible donation makes a difference. Give now: [link]."
20. "Valentine’s Day is about love—and giving back. Show some love with a donation: [link]."

Gratitude and follow-ups

21. "You made a difference! Your generosity helped us reach our goal. Thank you!"
22. "Because of you, [impact update]. We’re grateful for your support!"
23. "Want to see your gift in action? Check out this story: [link]."
24. "Your donation changed a life today. Thank you for your kindness!"
25. "We couldn’t do this without you. Stay connected to see your impact: [link]."

Common challenges with text donations and how to overcome them

Text-to-give fundraising is simple, but that doesn’t mean it’s always smooth sailing. Nonprofits often run into a few key challenges when launching their campaigns. The good news? Most of these issues have easy fixes.

Challenge 1: Low engagement rates

Not every donor will act on the first text they receive. Some may forget, while others might not be ready to give in the moment.

How to fix it:

• Send follow-ups. A gentle reminder can nudge hesitant donors to take action.
• Use different messaging. If one text isn’t working, test a new approach with a fresh call to action.
• Add urgency. A time-sensitive appeal—like a matching gift challenge—encourages quicker responses.

Challenge 2: Donors hesitate due to security concerns

Some donors worry about sharing their payment details through a mobile link.

How to fix it:

• Use a trusted platform. Ensure your text-to-give provider follows industry security standards.
• Be transparent. Let donors know their payment is processed securely and that their data is protected.
• Offer multiple options. Some donors feel more comfortable giving through PayPal, Apple Pay, or other trusted platforms.

Challenge 3: High platform fees

Some text to give platforms charge a percentage of each donation, which can eat into your funds.

How to fix it:

• Compare providers. Look for platforms with low processing fees or nonprofit discounts.
• Encourage donors to cover fees. Some platforms allow donors to add a small extra amount to offset processing costs.
• Push recurring giving. Even with fees, long-term donor support increases total fundraising revenue.

Challenge 4: Hard-to-remember keywords or numbers

If your text-to-give keyword or phone number is complicated, people may forget it before they have a chance to donate.

How to fix it:

• Keep it simple. Choose a short, memorable keyword like GIVE, HOPE, or HELP.
• Repeat it often. Make sure your text-to-give number is included in emails, social media posts, and event signage.
• Use QR codes. Instead of making people text a number, let them scan a QR code that opens the donation link directly.

Challenge 5: Donors give once but don’t return

Many text donors are one-time givers, and nonprofits struggle to turn them into long-term supporters.

How to fix it:

• Follow up with impact updates. Show donors exactly how their gift made a difference.
• Invite them to give monthly. Offer a one-click option to set up recurring donations.
• Stay in touch. Use text updates, emails, and social media to keep donors engaged year-round.

Get started with text fundraising today

Text donations aren’t just a trend—they’re one of the most effective ways to raise money quickly and keep donors engaged. With simple messaging, easy giving options, and high open rates, text fundraising removes the friction that often slows down donations.

The most successful nonprofits don’t just ask for donations—they build relationships. Keep your donors engaged with impact updates, follow-ups, and opportunities to give again. A one-time text donation is great, but turning a donor into a long-term supporter is even better.

At Harness, we’ve helped nonprofits raise millions through smart, automated text-to-give campaigns—and we make it incredibly easy to get started. We even provide your custom text code and handle the full setup for you, so you can start raising funds without the hassle.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between text-to-give and text-to-donate?

Text-to-give allows donors to charge their donation to their phone bill, while text-to-donate sends them a link to a secure donation page where they can enter their payment details. Most nonprofits prefer text-to-donate because it provides more flexibility and higher donation limits.

How do text-to-give platforms process payments?

Most platforms use credit/debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, or other mobile payment methods. Once a donor submits their payment, the funds go directly to the nonprofit’s account, minus any platform processing fees.

What are the best practices for writing a short donation message?

Keep it clear, personal, and action-driven. Use urgency, a strong call to action, and limit the message to just a few lines. Example:
"Hunger can’t wait. A $10 gift feeds a family tonight. Donate now: [link]."

How can I promote my text fundraising campaign?

Use social media, email, website banners, and fundraising events to share your text-to-give keyword and donation number. Encourage board members, volunteers, and influencers to spread the word.

Are text donations secure for donors?

Yes, as long as you use a reputable text-to-give provider with encryption and data protection. Always communicate to donors that their payments are processed securely.

What types of nonprofits benefit most from text fundraising?

Any nonprofit can use text-to-give, but it’s especially effective for organizations with urgent needs, recurring campaigns, or strong social media followings. It works well for disaster relief, faith-based groups, animal rescues, and community-focused charities.

‍