There is no need to expound further on the tragedy that has struck Haiti over the last week. With over half a million people misplaced and heartbreaking number of the those killed- the earthquakes and aftermath of the Haiti disaster are truly of epic proportions.
Many Americans launched into action immediately after the disaster was announced, giving generously to the victims of the Haiti disaster. According to one report, in just a few days aid from Americans has surpassed $150 Million dollars– more than has been pledged by the entire US government. A series of text message campaigns have raised over $12 Million dollars as of January 17th. Here are three Google verified campaigns that you can text to donate to:
- SMS text “HAITI” to 90999 to donate $10 to Red Cross relief efforts
- SMS text “YELE” to 501501 to Donate $5 to Yele Haiti’s Earthquake Relief efforts
- SMS text “GIVE10” to 20222 to donate $10 to Direct Relief
In reading this, if you have the impulse to text one or all of those numbers- go for it. These are all great charities that have a great track record – so I don’t want to discourage text donations in any way.
What I would like to call for however if that people be GENEROUS in giving. What does it mean to be generous? This is a very personal decision as to how much you are willing to donate to Haiti relief, but I think a good rule of thumb is to think about what you spend in an average month of entertainment or gifts or even just going out to eat- and give at least a comparable amount to the victims of this tragedy. The idea is to sacrifice something you really don’t need to help out those in an incredibly desperate situation.
Those of you who are reading this post are likely those who have given or are planning on giving money to the Haiti relief effort, so I know I am preaching to choir- but let me just remind you that if you have an impulse to give- give now. The impulse will pass, life will resume next week, and Haiti will soon be left behind as another footnote of 2010. Take action now, and share some of your prosperity with those who need it most at this time.
Here are a few more of the relief sites that are excepting donations directly:
http://www.redcross.org/
http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org
http://www.unicef.org/
Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters in Haiti. Let’s do our part to put those thoughts into action through generous donations now.
(More great lists of verified charities)
4 Comments. Leave new
This message can’t be repeated often enough. I agree that text donations are great. Please don’t stop there. Go to these websites — even if you’ve given money elsewhere. Learn more about the amazing missions and organizations that have dedicated themselves to Haiti and her people for decades. Financial support is of utmost importance but our ongoing awareness will do more than we can appreciate.
Great post, Adrian. I’ve also been thinking that I don’t want to just give something to help Haiti–I want to give something up in order to help Haiti. We are so privileged here in the US.