Can support paid to family members count as an IRS deduction?

Does support count as a charitable contribution?

Well...no. A "charitable contribution" must meet the qualifications of the IRS covered under 26 USC §170, specifically 170(c) -- definition of charitable contributions. As a rule of thumb, you need to donate to a corporation that has been qualified as non-profit or tax deductible by IRS regulation. This is not an absolute rule, but rather a good guideline. If you really have nothing to do, feel free to slog through section 170. This section has been known to make seasoned lawyers weep. Or, you can always find a willing tax attorney of CPA who will meet with you to help qualify your contributions.