Have you always wanted to help the Ukrainian crisis, but never knew what to do or how to go about doing it?  This is your chance to make a difference.  Watch local resident James Olm’s YouTube link to learn more and then be a supportive force for the good of Ukrainian refugees. 

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Editor’s note: The video was recorded at Christmastime, but its placement on The Banner was delayed while we did our due diligence regarding the Hope Shelter in Przemysl, Poland. Rather than the donations site that James suggested, we found that there is a US partner of the shelter that has 501(c)(3) status. Hope and Action, Inc. may be reached at hopeandactions.org. Donations should be specified for Hope Shelter.

By the way, the following announcement regarding a new IRS deduction for charitable contributions may be of interest.

New $1,000 standard deduction charity break in 2026

Do you typically claim the standard deduction on your federal taxes? You’re in luck. Beginning in 2026, there’s a new deduction you could take.

The non-itemizer charitable deduction is available for all taxpayers claiming the standard deduction, worth up to $1,000 ($2,000 for joint filers).

Here are a few fast facts on this key tax break:

• Only cash contributions qualify (checks, credit card charges, online donations and payroll deductions).
• The donation must be made to a qualified 501(c)(3) public charity.
• You must follow the typical IRS rules for a charitable deduction, including obtaining a written acknowledgement if you donate $250 or more.

Unlike the itemized charitable deduction, any contributions exceeding the annual limit for the non-itemized deduction cannot be carried forward. You also can’t use the deduction in conjunction with a donor-advised fund (DAF) or private foundation, as you can for itemized charitable contributions.

Despite these limitations, some predict that 144 million Americans will be eligible to claim the standard deduction charitable tax break.

Source: Kiplinger

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Pete Linforth from Pixabay.