This article says something that needs to be said. Don’t give money just to Haiti.
Sure, donating money in a time of need is absolutely useful and will no doubt be helpful when catastrophe strikes. Charities like Médecins Sans Frontières and the US Red Cross get lots of money out of telethons, SMS donations, etc. but all with one unfortunate string attached. The string being that money donated can only be used in Haiti. This presents a problem, especially when large sums of money are donated, much more than what is needed for a disaster. For example, since the 2005 Tsunami, the US Red Cross has only been able to spend 83% of all its donations, money which could be used to help the people of Haiti now.
By donating to general funds, you give the charities freedom to use your donated money most effectively by allowing them to use it where it is needed the most. Haiti is in trouble now, but who knows who could be hit next.
Now, go read about Médecins sans Frontières (always do your research first!) and then donate to MSF’s Emergency Relief Fund (if you’re a US resident) or here for Canadian residents.
