Disaster Relief: How to Help Effectively

With Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, Hurricane Jose, Hurricane Maria, and a number of wildfires, this summer has seen tons of natural disasters. Tragically, many lost their lives, and many more lost their homes, livelihoods, and communities. While you may want to help, you may be hesitant to give knowing the number of charity scams out there. Indeed, it’s important to ensure your money is going to an organization that will use it effectively and generously. So what factors should you consider?

1. Donate cash instead of stuff

Often times we think to donate used clothes, canned food, and other supplies. While these supplies are certainly needed, they require significant funds and manpower to sort, send, and distribute. These efforts can waist precious time and money. Comparatively, money contributions can be used much more efficiently when given to the appropriate organization. Only give supplies if an organization requests them for a specific purpose and gives specific guidelines by which to donate the supplies. Otherwise, follow the guidelines below to give money to a respected charity or organization.

2. Do your research

When picking a charity, consider the organization’s financial health and results. What percentage of their funds do they actually donate to relief efforts? How do they use donated money? Do they have ties to the community in need or do they trample over local efforts? Charity Navigator and Charity Watch allow you to easily research charities and find answers to some of these questions.

Consider looking for local charities and non-profits on Great Nonprofits. Local organizations better understand community needs and are better positioned to provide aid. If you decide to go with a larger charity, consider The Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Convoy of Hope, and governmental branches.

3. Prioritize Donations for Food and Shelter

While there are many important facets to rebuilding a community, food and shelter are the most immediate needs. Consider donating to local and regional food banks, shelters for the homeless or disabled, home rebuilding initiatives (such as Habitat for Humanity), pet shelters, and funds for medical supplies and relief. When donating to home rebuilding initiatives, research the organization’s ties to the local community. After disasters, developers often sweep in to claim newly cheap land and build expensive properties that previous residents can no longer afford. Help preserve the homes and communities of local inhabitants by donating to local, community-focused rebuilding efforts.

4. Donate your time

You can volunteer at local food banks or shelters. Additionally, you can look for organizations working to sort donated supplies and assist in that effort.

Do you have extra rooms in your house? Airbnb, a site that allows individuals to rent out their home or a room in their home to vacationers, has a disaster relief option that allows homeowners to offer rooms to displaced disaster victims for free. Consider putting your extra room up to help relieve individuals looking for a place to stay.

Do you have some advice on how to help after disaster? Let us know in the comments below!