In 2026, if you do not itemize, you may deduct up to $1,000 ($2,000 if filing jointly) of your cash contributions.

This is “above-the-line,” meaning it is deducted from gross income before calculating adjusted gross income. The Rescue Outreach Mission qualifies as an organization for which a cash contribution is tax-deductible.

Good for you and good for the Rescue Outreach Mission, but what does an “extra” $1,000 or $2,000 mean to Rescue Outreach Mission?

• The cost to house a guest at the mission is $35.00 per night. $1,000 means 29 nights for a guest. Your contribution will fund shelter services for a homeless person for one month. Shelter services include 3 meals a day, all essentials and case management.
• Vouchers for bus fare/transportation connecting our guests with permanent housing out of the county and possibly the state. At times, our guests need only the funds to go stay with family or friends.
• Once an apartment becomes available for our guests, they need to pay a deposit. Our guests may be able to pay the rent, but first, last month’s rent and a security deposit are beyond any funds they have available. Even if negotiated down, some deposit funds are always required.
• Sometimes guests require uniforms that must be purchased. Uniforms are not available at a thrift shop.
• Funds to repair a bike or a car that our guests need to get to work.
• Vouchers for childcare.
• Gift certificates for a guest once they leave for a permanent home to help set up their room and/or apartment.

These are examples of how your contribution could possibly be spent. Your contribution of $1,000/$2,000 can help make a significant change in our guests’ lives. Each guest is unique, and the reasons they become homeless are varied. However, one constant is that the pathway to permanent housing costs money. Every dollar you give makes a difference and is much more appreciated than you may know

Thank you for what you do and please continue supporting the Rescue Outreach Mission. Take advantage of the government-approved cash deduction starting in 2026; it’s a win/win for you and the Rescue Outreach Mission.