Many words have been written and much data collected about why people give to charity. Giving Tuesday may well be the “giving-est” day of the year, and so the question is worth reflecting on.

A recent survey , by Charities Aid Foundation America , identified six reasons that motivate people to donate money: To set an example for others. Because they felt guilty saying “no”. Because it’s just expected. Because it’s our duty to give to charity. Because religion encourages it. To support the local community.

Globe Santa hears all these reasons (except, happily, the one about feeling guilty saying “no”.) When donors write to Globe Santa, they typically express empathy for struggling families, and gratitude for their own good fortune in life. As one donor wrote in an email this year

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