UN World Food Programme Embraces Cryptocurrency Donations

The American branch of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP USA) has initiated the acceptance of cryptocurrency donations.

The organisation now accepts over 80 types of digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin. This development is made possible through a partnership with The Giving Block platform, as stated in the press release.

WFP USA representatives highlighted that cryptocurrencies enable faster and more secure fundraising for projects in more than 120 countries where the organisation combats hunger.

They cautioned that humanitarian aid resources are dwindling.

To address this shortfall, on March 31, WFP USA launched the Emergency Hunger Relief Fund, aiming to raise over $25 million from private donors and companies in the United States to support food programmes.

The use of crypto assets offers sponsors several advantages:

• transactions are faster than bank transfers;
• fees are lower compared to credit cards;
• donations in digital currency allow avoidance of capital gains tax and provide a deduction of the full market value of the asset.

“The global food crisis demands unconventional solutions. Digital assets have become an important tool for those who want to help right now,” said Dorota Amin, WFP USA’s Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships.

Back in October 2024, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin sold 10 billion MOODENG meme coins for 308.7 ETH and donated 260.15 ETH to charity.