The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 plus 3 letter word BAND AID
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
B
A
N
D
A
I
D
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "charity" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case charity = band aid.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does BAND AID mean?
BAND AID noun- An adhesive bandage, a small piece of fabric or plastic that may be stuck to the skin in order to temporarily cover a small wound.
- A temporary or makeshift solution to a problem, created ad hoc and often with a lack of foresight.
- To apply an adhesive bandage.
- To apply a makeshift fix; to jury-rig.