[header] How to ask for help from strangers [title] Determine what you need. [step] When you encounter a problem, stop and think about all possible solutions. Before you begin asking anyone for help, take some time to determine exactly what kind of help you need. 
A concise call for something specific will always garner better results than a general plea for assistance. [substeps] If you are seeking monetary donations, think very carefully about the specific amount you need, and exactly how it would be spent.