A New Tax Benefit for Giving in 2026

hand receiving money back

Beginning in 2026, many donors who take the standard deduction may still be eligible for a federal tax deduction of up to $1,000 for individuals or $2,000 for couples filing jointly when they make cash gifts directly to qualified nonprofits like Second Story.

This means your support for children, youth, and families in crisis may now come with a tax benefit, even if you do not itemize.

It’s one more reason to make giving, right here in Northern Virginia, part of your everyday philanthropy and help ensure young people and families in our community have the safety, stability, and opportunities they deserve.

Give today knowing your 2026 support may now come with a federal tax benefit. For details, donors can review the official IRS guidance here: https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc506.

Make your 2026 gift go further by donating now.

Need Help?

If you need help right away, our 24/7 hotline provides support and referrals to services in the Washington DC metro area.
Call 1-800-SAY-TEEN or text “TEENHELP” to 855-11

Your Impact

We make every dollar count. The direct support of young people, their families and their communities, is our first priority. Here are examples of how your donation may be used.

$20,000

  • Three high school students experiencing homelessness receive a full year of rental assistance and support services so they can remain in school and graduate with their class.

$1,000

  • One teenager receives a safe haven, warm bed, food, and round-the-clock support for five nights at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Eight months of therapy for a young woman in the Second Story for Young Mothers program.

$500

  • One teen receives daily counseling during a three-week stay at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Twenty counseling sessions for the children and teens who are at-risk and participating in our after-school programs.

$100

  • Three teens receive a therapy session at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Two weeks of food for a young mother and her child at Second Story for Young Mothers.

Thank you for your support!