Who can sign up to help?
Anyone. You don’t need to be wealthy — you just need to have something to give, even if it’s small. A $20 grocery card matters. A letter matters. Showing up consistently matters most of all.
Who can request support?
Anyone going through a hard time. There is no income verification or application process. We simply ask that you be honest about your situation and your needs.
How do I know my help is reaching the right person?
You connect directly with your penpal. There is no pool of funds, no intermediary organization receiving donations on behalf of others. You send your help — a gift card, a payment, a care package — directly to your penpal, in the way you both agree is safest and most private.
What if the relationship isn’t working?
Either person can step back at any time by letting us know. We’ll handle the transition gently and, if appropriate, help find a new match for both parties.
Is PenPal Promise a nonprofit?
We are not a registered nonprofit. We do not collect donations or take fees of any kind. We are simply a platform — a place where people who want to help can find people who need it, with privacy and dignity for everyone involved.
More questions?
Write to us at [email protected]. We respond to every message personally.