Overview
- The annual Ipsos survey for Fondation Apprentis d’Auteuil, released Thursday, reports only 47% of people gave money in 2025, the lowest share since 2019, with an average annual gift of €336.
- Giving fell further in early 2026 as just 17% donated in the first quarter, down three points from the same period in 2025.
- Young adults and high earners pulled back the most, with under‑35s giving less often and only 41% of high‑income households donating in the first quarter, even as those who did give from that group donated more on average (€2,646).
- Most respondents cite the cost of living as the main reason for cutting donations, and many say they are saving more due to anxiety about personal finances, world events, and national politics.
- Charities warn of cash strain, with a prior sector survey finding a quarter of groups held under two months of reserves, while some donors switch to in‑kind gifts and the gap between planned and actual giving grows.