In the wake of a natural disaster, millions of people across the globe make an effort to do their part and help those whose lives were adversely affected. Such disasters inspire many to donate money, clothing and food. While relief organizations can always benefit from financial assistance, donors who want to pitch in after a natural disaster may want to think twice before donating clothing and bottled water. According to the USAID Center for International Disaster Information, cash contributions are the most effective way for donors to channel their good will and help those affected by disasters overseas. That’s because cash contributions do not require transportation costs, delays, customs fees, or related expenses. The CIDI also notes that cash contributions allow relief agencies to purchase exactly what is needed, when it’s needed. Food and clothing donations can actually divert relief workers from the task at hand as they attempt to sort, store and distribute materials that may not even be needed. Donors who read reports about tainted water in disaster-affected areas may be quick to send bottled water. However, in such instances, the CIDI encourages donors to instead donate cash for water purification filters. That’s because shipping 100,000 liters of bottled water can cost $350,000, whereas a locally purchased water purification filter can be purchased for right around $300. The resulting savings can help relief organizations make better use of the financial resources at their disposal.
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