definition
strict definition
charity
A place whose main function is to provide charitable help to persons needing it.
A place of charity is a site where people help those who need it most, often through the distribution of goods and services.
The help is directed toward people with the greatest need. Distribution of goods and services is common, but the same goods and services can also be supplied commercially without the charitable purpose.
A mission house and a food pantry identify more specific forms of assistance. Social services provide amenities for ordinary community convenience without necessarily responding to extreme need.
More specific definitions
4 sub-definitions-
animal shelter
A place where animals are housed for their protection, sometimes also for sale, operated with or without a profit motive. -
food bank
A collection and storage facility for food intended for people in need, usually supplied onward to food pantries. -
food pantry
A place where people in need regularly receive food free of charge or at a very low below-market cost. -
mission house
A place providing food, clothing, or other basic necessities to people of limited means, excluding primarily residential facilities.