IMO, just because something doesn contain the EXACT phrasing "asking for donations" doesn't mean that's not what's going on, neither does "who" is making the request.
Not that it matters anyway...but that's just my opinion.
When I got it, if felt like a request...and obviously I'm not the only one who felt that way.
I personally don't care if I get 50 requests asking for money for what someone feels is a 'worthy cause', if I don't feel that it is, I won't donate. At the same time, if I get one, then I know goodness knows how many other people are too and if I personally feel compelled to voice my concerns about it for whatever reason, just kind of as a "hey, here's something you might want to take into consideration when making your decision" then I certainly will do so.