Haiti Earthquake Relief: How You Can Help

The International Federation of the Red Cross estimates that 3 million people were affected by the 7.0-magnitude Haiti earthquake, the center of which was located near the capital city of Port-au-Prince. Approximately 1.8 million people live in the area hit by the highest intensity of the quake. While there has been no official toll reported, it is estimated that as many as 100,000 or more are feared dead and earthquake victims line the streets of Port-au-Prince, as workers rush to help those in need.

The aftermath that follows an international disaster such as this brings about a compassionate response from Americans. However, many are not sure of how they can best support the efforts of groups and governments responding in a crisis. In almost every situation, cash donations are better than donated goods or services for reasons outlined below.

Why Cash is Best

The best way to help is to donate financially to organizations responding to a disaster. Cash allows relief professionals to procure exactly what is needed in a disaster situation and ensure that donations are culturally, dietary, and environmentally appropriate. Cash donations do not use up other scarce resources, such as transportation, staff time or warehouse space. As needed, cash can also be transferred quickly to where needed, helping bolster the economy of the disaster-stricken region.

How You Can Help: Make a donation to the American Red Cross

 Text: Send a $10 donation by texting ‘Haiti’ to 90999. Your donation will be added to your phone bill. In addition to your donation amount, standard text messaging fees apply.

 Online: Make a credit card donation by visiting www.redcross.org and click Donate Now.

 Call: Make a credit card donation by calling 1.800.REDCROSS or 1.800.257.7576 (Spanish).

 Mail: Send a check donation to American Red Cross, PO Box 4002018, Des Moines, IA 50340-2018. Please indicate International Relief Fund – Haiti on the check memo line.