Charity
Haiti and the Spirit of Giving
Jan 22nd
Giving, it’s the American Way.
Whenever tragedy strikes the benevolence of the American people always pours out. The world media may paint an ugly picture or America but when it comes down to it we are willing to put our words into action. We may be a politically split nation but one thing is common among most Americans; we are a very charitable people.
It may just be five or ten dollars but when you add it all together it becomes something significant. The last solid figure I was able to find in regards to text messaging donations was over $10 million. Even though it has been reported that the funds raised will take at least 90 days to be put to use there is no doubt that the money will be needed much longer than 90 days from now.
Haiti Giving Guide
Jan 15th
There are a lot of resources on the web to help you give wisely to the devastation in Haiti. I have brought together all the reliable information I could find so that you can see it all in one place. If you are able to give that is wonderful, I want to help make sure your money is put in the right hands.
Giving Tips
As outlined on Charity Navigator.
- Avoid Newly-Formed Charities and Give To An Established Charity That Has Worked In Haiti. – Find a charity with a good reputation. New charities may not be capable of dealing with the Haiti situation. So, don’t give your money to the first charity you see. Make sure they are legit and effective.
- DO NOT GIVE To The Haitian Government
- Designate Your Investment – Don’t count on your chosen charity to use the money in the way you want. Be sure to specify the Haiti disaster.
- Do Not Send Supplies – You may be tempted to send a care package, do not. The infrastructure needed to handle packages from outside of the country is not functioning and you would be wasting your time and money. If you are going to give, give cash to a reliable charity.
- Be Careful Of Email Solicitations– Sadly, in a time of crises there are people out there trying to get their own piece of the pie. People are willing to give and people are willing to take, even if they don’t need it. Basically, do not reply to any emails you receive and do not open any attachments in the emails. If you don’t know the sender, delete it. Resist the urge! How could they have access to a computer? Delete it!
You can read the full article at Charity Navigator.