The earthquake in Haiti has compelled millions of people to generously give their money, food, and time to help with the relief efforts. Since January 12th, pictures of children playing outside next to leveled homes has inspired an unprecedented number of donations from people across the globe. Most of these were small - around $10 Dollars - but millions of these small donations add up!
With media swarming the event, you are reminded everyday of the many different ways to donate money. Among the newest and most popular ways is text messaging. However, is this new phenomenon the most efficient way to help out the people of Haiti?
When you text in a donation, the amount is added to your phone bill. It can take up to 90 days for your phone service provider to send all the money to charities.
The most efficient way to give is online. Most charities allow you to make credit card donations directly through their websites. This is the fastest way to give and the least expensive to process.
Here are 4 Tips To Make Your Gifts to Haiti Count:
- Give to charities that already have experience in Haiti - There are many worthwhile organizations with a good track record in Haiti.
- Don't earmark donations - Once you've selected a good charity, don't put restrictions on your donations.
- Take advantage of new tax rules - If you think the deduction will be more in 2010, you can claim your donation when you file your 2010 tax return. There are also options to claim on your 2009 taxes (Check with your tax preparer to see which is best for you.)
- Make a long-term commitment to give - It may take a minimum of 10 years for Haiti to get back on their feet, so continue to support organizations that are staying in Haiti.
Remember, charities aren't equally helpful, so be as picky as you are generous. If you trust an organization and they have a good track record, let them use their judgment to handle the disaster.
Here are some Haiti relief organizations who have received top ratings:
- Action Against Hunger, www.actionagainsthunger.org
- American Red Cross, www.redcross.org
- Doctors Without Borders - USA, www.doctorswithoutborders.org
- Partners With Health, www.standwithhaiti.com
- CARE, www.care.org
- Save The Children, www.savethechildren.org
All the Best!
