Climate crisis
is a human crisis
As temperatures rise, droughts last longer, floods are stronger and more frequent. Farmers can’t grow enough food, and families are forced to flee for safety. For millions of people this is a daily reality.
Your donation helps farmers adapt to climate change and support their families. And it helps people displaced by flooding and other disasters rebuild.
Tomorrow is Too Late
While the world debates climate policy, families of small-scale farmers are losing their harvests to drought. Women and children walk farther for water. Communities are forced to abandon their homes due to flooding.
Growing hunger
Unpredictable weather means lost harvests and less food for families in places like Chad and Cameroon.
Water scarcity
Water sources are drying up, forcing communities to compete for life-sustaining resources.
Disasters and displacement
Extreme weather and disasters destroy homes and livelihoods, creating climate refugees with nowhere to go.
CLWR’s climate approach: resilience, innovation and hope
Nature-based solutions
We help farmers learn new farming techniques like crop diversification, minimal tillage and using biopesticides to increase how much they can grow.
Access to water
We build and rehabilitate wells and irrigation systems. Communities gain sustainable access to water for drinking, cooking and farming.
New livelihoods
We help families find new ways to earn income, like beekeeping or raising small livestock. When farmers don’t rely on just one crop, they have more secure income throughout the year.
Real impact in the Lake Chad region
2287
2.3X
35,763
44
Women and girls in Farmer Field Schools
Higher adoption of crop diversity
Seedlings planted
Income generating groups established
Real impact in the Lake Chad region
2287
2.3X
Women and girls in Farmer Field Schools
Higher adoption of crop diversity
35,763
44
Seedlings planted
Income generating groups established
Respond to the climate crisis with a meaningful gift
Plant 10 trees
Add ten trees to Africa’s Great Green Wall, and you’ll provide jobs and help heal the land around Lake Chad.
Suggested donation: $10
Transform an acre
Rejuvenate land around Lake Chad, restoring the entire ecosystem, reforesting the land and bringing water.
Suggested donation: $50
Fight drought
Build irrigation canals for farming communities to a steady water supply.
Suggested donation: $250
Or donate any amount where it’s needed most:
Why donors trust CLWR?
Transparent and accountable
Since 1946, CLWR has been known for its trusted work. We’re reviewed by independent third-party organizations, like Charity Intelligence.
Government matched giving
Many of our programs are matched by the Canadian government, multiplying the impact of your donation.
Community-led solutions
We work with local partners who understand their communities best, ensuring sustainable, lasting change.
Ready to make a difference?
Climate action starts with your compassion. A donation of any amount to Where needed most allows us to direct resources to communities around the world right when they need it most
Frequent Asked Questions
Who is Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR)?
Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) is a Canadian humanitarian organization working to end hunger, fight poverty and build resilient communities around the world. Founded in 1946 to assist refugees after World War II, we bring more than 75 years of experience in emergency response and long-term development.
While rooted in the Lutheran tradition, we serve people based on need, regardless of faith, background or nationality; partnering with trusted local organizations to create lasting change.
How exactly does my donation fight climate crisis?
Your donation supports practical, community-led solutions. Our work is guided by local needs and priorities and so looks different in each context. This includes things like planting trees to restore landscapes and soil quality, installing solar-powered irrigation systems, providing drought-resistant seeds and training farmers in climate-smart agriculture. These solutions revive ecosystems and help families adapt and thrive in a changing climate
How can I donate?
You can donate online at www.clwr.org, by calling us at 1-800-661-2597, or by mailing a cheque, payable to Canadian Lutheran World Relief, to us at 400-185 Carlton Street, Winnipeg MB, R3C 3J1. To donate through e-transfer, stocks or shares, click here.
How much of my donation goes directly to programs?
We are committed to responsible stewardship. Approximately 85% of every dollar goes directly to programs that support communities around the world. The remaining funds cover essential administration and fundraising costs that ensure accountability, transparency and long-term impact.
Can I trust that my donation is used wisely?
Yes. CLWR is regularly audited, and we work with reliable, trusted local partners who understand their communities best. We receive funding from the Government of Canada and other foundations that require strong reporting on spending and results. We also are a top-rated charity by Charity Intelligence, an independent organization that reviews reporting from Canadian Charities to ensure transparency and effectiveness.
I’m not Lutheran. Can I still donate?
Absolutely. While we are inspired by Christian values of justice and compassion, we serve people based on need — regardless of race, religion, identity, gender or background. Our supporters come from many different faiths and perspectives, united by a shared commitment to dignity and hope.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. CLWR is a registered Canadian charity. Donations are eligible for an official tax receipt which will be sent to you by email or mail.