13 Jun 2025
Every time you send money home, it means so much more than just a transfer. It’s a sign of love, care, and sacrifice. Around the world, over 200 million migrants send money to support 800 million family members. That’s nearly a billion people depending on remittances to get by.
In 2023 alone, families in low- and middle-income countries received over $669 billion through remittances. This money helps reduce poverty, support daily needs, and keep local economies alive and growing. So this June 16, on International Day of Family Remittances, let’s look at how your support is making a difference far beyond your own home.
Sending money home is like throwing a stone into a lake—the waves spread far. That one transfer helps more than just your family. In many countries like Nepal, El Salvador, or Lebanon, remittances make up over 20% of the country’s income. In fact, in some places, money from family abroad brings in more money than foreign investors or aid programs. Your support is a big deal—it’s not just personal, it’s economic.
Think about it—when your family gets your transfer, they often use it for food, rent, school, or medicine. That money goes to local shops, farmers, doctors, and schools. It keeps their businesses running and their workers paid.
Around 75% of all remittances are used for basic needs like these. And more than half of all this money goes to people living in villages or small towns, where jobs are fewer. Your money gives those communities strength and hope.
Remittances don’t just help families—they help entire countries stay stable. When your family exchanges your euros or dollars into local money, it adds to the country’s currency reserves. That helps control prices and keeps the economy steady. Even when disasters strike—like a flood, economic crisis, or pandemic—remittances keep coming.
In fact, people often send more during hard times. That makes your support even more valuable during those moments.
Remember when sending money meant going to a shop, waiting in line, and paying high fees? Those days are fading. Now, with apps and online tools, sending money is faster, cheaper, and easier. The United Nations even says that digital remittance tools help move us closer to the Sustainable Development Goals—because they make money transfers fairer and more accessible for everyone.
Thanks to mobile wallets, your family doesn’t need to travel to a bank anymore. They can get the money directly on their phone—even if they live in a remote village.
These digital wallets allow them to save money, pay bills, or even borrow money for emergencies—all from their mobile. In places like Kenya, mobile money has helped lift over 1 million people out of poverty. So when you send money this way, you're giving them more than cash—you're giving them freedom and opportunity.
For a long time, high fees meant your family received less. But digital tools are changing that. While the average cost of sending money globally is about 6.4%, many online platforms charge much less. The UN hopes to bring the average below 3%.
That extra savings means your family gets to use more of what you send. Even saving $10 on a $200 transfer can help cover school supplies or food for the week.
Your transfers help shape brighter futures. They fund businesses, education, and healthcare—and build stronger, fairer communities.
Across the world, women are often the ones receiving remittances—and they’re using that money in powerful ways. Many start home businesses like food stalls or sewing shops. Others invest in their children’s education or in better healthcare. Studies show that women are more likely to spend wisely—on things that benefit the whole family and community. So your remittance helps women rise and lead.
Young people are using remittance money to follow their dreams—starting businesses, learning new skills, or building apps and online shops. In places like Nigeria, Pakistan, and India, remittance support has helped youth create tech startups and eco-friendly solutions. With the right tools and encouragement, they’re turning your support into real innovation.
At the end of the day, remittances aren’t just about sending money—they’re about building a better future. They support your family, grow your hometown, and uplift entire nations. This International Day of Family Remittances, be proud of the love and impact you're sharing with every transfer. You're not just sending funds—you’re sending hope.
