Crowdsourcing and SSI/SSDI benefits

Hello from Virginia,

We frequently receive I&A calls from individuals looking to fund (thru grants or donations) their transportation needs  (other than alternative financing loans). Clients with social security benefits have reported that their benefits are being negatively affected since charitable contributions are counted as income.  SSI requires that any money earned from a Go Fund Me Page or other church / community organization (any crowdsourcing) be reported with probably penalties.

We are trying to see if other AT Act programs have experienced this and what recommendations they have offered.  ABLE accounts could help protect social security benefits if the money is deposited directly (and there are other stipulations).  Just wondered if others have come across this and how do you handle recommendations without possible risk to people with SSI?

Thanks!