Give Help. Get Help.
HelpLink was born from Spark in the Dark, a peer-to-peer resource sharing platform focused on connecting those in need with those who can help. Together, over 120,000 needs have been met since 2017 by individuals, just like you, coming together to help their neighbor in need.
Give to Needs
See exactly where your money goes. Every donation covers a specific, verified need — no middleman, no mystery.
Browse & Search
From helping your neighbor nearby to searching for needs based on demographics, need type, and more — our platform allows you to give directly to needs that matter most to you.
Choose & Donate
Select a need and donate any amount. Your tax-deductible contribution goes directly toward fulfilling that specific need — you see exactly where your money goes.
See Your Impact
Once the need is met, you'll receive a thank-you note with a photo and message from the person you helped. Track your giving history, your impact, and see the real difference you've made.
Ask for Help
Sometimes asking for help is the hardest part. HelpLink makes it simple, safe, and judgment-free.
Post Your Need
Post a need for yourself or on behalf of another, up to two times per month. Whether it's a utility bill, car repair, or work supplies — tell us what you need. Our verified nonprofit partners may also ask on behalf of their communities with no limitations.
Enter Some Basic Information
We'll ask for some basic information about the need and the recipient. We don't share this information, but we do use it to match funds to your need and in aggregate for reporting purposes.
Wait for HelpLink Review
Every ask is reviewed by HelpLink for basic content and to price the need. After our review is complete, we'll publish the need under your profile to the community for donations.
Gratitude at the Core
Gratitude is at the core of HelpLink, which is why we allow those who have received help to say thank you with a photo and a message that lands directly in the inbox of those that helped meet their need. It's a simple, powerful moment that closes the loop between generosity and impact — reminding everyone involved that what they did mattered.
What Makes HelpLink Different
Privacy & Dignity
Your personal details are never shared publicly. HelpLink protects your identity while connecting you to the support you need — no stigma, no judgment.
Direct Fulfillment
We don't hand out cash. Every donation goes toward purchasing a specific item or paying a verified bill, ensuring your generosity makes a real, tangible difference.
Community Connection
HelpLink brings neighbors, businesses, and nonprofits together around real needs. When you give or receive help here, you strengthen the bonds that make communities thrive.
What People Are Saying
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask for help on HelpLink?
Visit app.helplink.org/ask and describe your need — whether it's a utility bill, car repair, work clothes, or another essential. HelpLink staff will review your request, price the need, and post it to the community for funding. The entire process is designed to be simple and judgment-free.
What can you ask for?
Good fits for HelpLink:
- Clothing & Outerwear — shirts, belts, boots, coats, snow pants, etc.
- Bedding & Home Items — mattresses, furniture, and bedding supplies
- Baby & Maternity Items — diapers, bottles, formula, etc.
- Groceries & Food Delivery — groceries, meal delivery, and other food essentials
- Specific Bills & Debts — medical, utilities, rent, or other debts
Not-so-good fits:
- Cash or Equivalents — asking for money, paying credit card bills
- Employment Needs — job seekers and employment opportunities
- Scheduled Transportation — doctor, dentist, or regular visits at specific times
- Urgent Needs — emergency home or car repair, last-minute transportation needs
- Obscure Needs — needs that cannot be easily translated into dollars
How are donations used?
Every donation goes toward a specific, verified need. When you donate on HelpLink, your money is used to purchase the exact item or pay the exact bill that was requested. HelpLink does not distribute cash to individuals — we fulfill needs directly to ensure every dollar makes an impact.
Is my information kept private?
Yes, your personal details are never shared publicly. Only your first name and general location are visible to donors. HelpLink is built on the principle that everyone deserves help without stigma — your privacy is protected at every step.
How do I donate?
Visit app.helplink.org/give to browse current needs from real people in your community. Select a need, choose an amount, and donate securely online. Your tax-deductible contribution goes directly toward fulfilling that specific need, and you'll receive a thank-you note once it's met.
Did You Know?
of U.S. households can't afford basic necessities
people in the US live in food insecure homes
of Americans do not have an emergency savings account
of all US giving is done through individuals
Ready to make a difference?
Ready to make a difference — or get the help you need? Join thousands of people using HelpLink to support their community.