Donate to Joe East (3)

I believe the answer is:

gie

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'donate' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are verbs in their base form.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'joe east' is the wordplay.
'joe' becomes 'GI' (GI Joe).
'east' becomes 'e' (abbreviation).
'gi'+'e'='GIE'

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.