Amazon is discontinuing its AmazonSmile charity program next month

Amazon’s business practices and footprint have been the subject of much criticism over the years. From misleading products and reviews and environmental impact to impact on small businesses and employees, shoppers feel a great deal of guilt every time they use a convenient platform. AmazonSmile, which donates 0.05% to a charity of the shopper’s choice, is one way shoppers can ease their guilt. Coming Feb. 20, when AmazonSmile shuts down, these shoppers will have to find new avenues to absolution.

Amazon sent an email to free program participants about the news on Wednesday. The email said that AmazonSmile, which launched in 2013, “has not grown to the level of impact it had originally hoped.”

AmazonSmile shoppers can choose a charity that receives a 0.05% donation from one million participating 501(c)(3) charities. These groups include local groups such as the American Red Cross, Meals on Wheels America, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and certain Boys and Girls Club chapters.

Amazon claims that as of December 2022, AmazonSmile has donated $449,385,192 to global charities and $400 million to U.S. charities. “

Unfortunately, Amazon didn’t immediately announce a charity to replace AmazonSmile. Instead, he said, “we will continue to pursue and invest in other areas where we can make a meaningful difference.” The e-mail listed philanthropic efforts he’s already made, including the Housing Equity Fund for Affordable Housing, and the Future Engineers program, which he claims has funded his computer science curriculum for more than 600,000 students. It was listed.

Future Amazon philanthropic efforts will also focus on natural disaster relief through its extensive “logistics infrastructure and technology.”

Once the program ends, Amazon said it will give participating charities bonus donations in 2022 equivalent to a total of three months worth of donations the organization received through AmazonSmile.

“Even with AmazonSmile closed, charities can still create their own wish lists and solicit support from Amazon customers,” Amazon said.

Amazon’s shutdown of AmazonSmile adds to the list of reasons why people are frowning these days. Earlier this month, Amazon expanded its layoff plan from his 10,000 to his 18,000.