If you donate to Haiti, be mindful who you give to
Oct 7, 2016 7:25:02 GMT -8
Brian, anni, and 1 more like this
Post by Oss Rae on Oct 7, 2016 7:25:02 GMT -8
In 2010, after the devastating earthquake struck Haiti, Americans were quite generous in donating to Red Cross. (I myself saw large boxes in places like CostCo full of bills contributed by customers--including some twenties.) People around the world also gave generously to Red Cross. Yet, nearly seven years later, only a handful of homes have been built. The most notable development has been a new resort. Years after the quake struck, most of the affected areas still looked like the earthquake had just struck the previous night. When Haitians were asked of their opinion of Red Cross, many of them didn't even recognize the name Red Cross.
When confronted about this, Red Cross has said their resources are badly needed around the world--but these particular donations were intended specifically for Haiti and earthquake relief.
I have been involved in Haiti-related issues since 2004. This is one (of many) demonstrations I've been to and documented: la.indymedia.org/news/2013/01/258068.php. I've also been involved in fundraising for impoverished people in Haiti: la.indymedia.org/news/2011/09/247858.php and have fasted multiple times on behalf of a disappeared Haitian community activist (in conjunction with a weekly vigil for him that went on for a few years).
Based on what I've learned, the best organization to give to during emergencies is Haiti Emergency Relief Fund (HERF). It's run by volunteers who work with grassroots groups throughout Haiti. haitiemergencyrelief.org/Haiti_Emergency_Relief_Fund/home.html.
If you donate to Haiti relief, please be mindful of who you give to.
When confronted about this, Red Cross has said their resources are badly needed around the world--but these particular donations were intended specifically for Haiti and earthquake relief.
I have been involved in Haiti-related issues since 2004. This is one (of many) demonstrations I've been to and documented: la.indymedia.org/news/2013/01/258068.php. I've also been involved in fundraising for impoverished people in Haiti: la.indymedia.org/news/2011/09/247858.php and have fasted multiple times on behalf of a disappeared Haitian community activist (in conjunction with a weekly vigil for him that went on for a few years).
Based on what I've learned, the best organization to give to during emergencies is Haiti Emergency Relief Fund (HERF). It's run by volunteers who work with grassroots groups throughout Haiti. haitiemergencyrelief.org/Haiti_Emergency_Relief_Fund/home.html.
If you donate to Haiti relief, please be mindful of who you give to.