How Should I Give to Disaster Relief?
I often have people ask about which organizations they should send money to after a disaster. The best way to decide is to recognize that there are 2 main phases of recovery: short-term disaster relief, and long-term disaster recovery. The best way to give is to support both of those phases. First, give to immediate relief efforts through organizations who are actively serving the affected community. Then, give to the large funds that are set up by banks or foundations because that money will probably be used for long-term, big needs like medical bills, reconstruction, moving expenses, etc.
I have also put together a check list that I hope is helpful as you decide where and when to send your financial support. Before you send funds to any organization, take these steps:
1. Pause Before You Give
– Don’t feel pressured to contribute immediately.
– Wait until basic information emerges about the scope of damage and credible response efforts.
2. Verify Credibility
– Research the organization’s reputation.
– Check if they have an established history of disaster response.
– Confirm they are a legitimate nonprofit or recognized relief group.
3. Understand How Funds Will Be Used
– Ask for specific information about how donations will be spent.
– Look for transparency about administrative costs, logistics, and direct aid.
4. Prioritize Local Relationships
– Consider giving directly to trusted churches, ministries, or community foundations in the affected area.
– If possible, ask local leaders which organizations are doing the most effective work.
5. Use Established Networks
– When in doubt, partner with reputable disaster relief networks or denominational agencies (Texans on Mission, United Methodist Committee on Relief, Catholic Charities, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, Samaritan’s Purse, Salvation Army, etc.).
– These groups have trained volunteers and clear accountability structures.
6. Stay Alert for Scams
– Be cautious of new websites, phone solicitations, or social media campaigns that spring up overnight.
– Verify before sharing links or fundraising appeals on social media.
7. Reassess Over Time
– Needs evolve during recovery—what is urgent in week 1 may not be in month 3.
– Consider holding back some resources to meet longer-term needs like rebuilding and counseling.
Guiding Principle
Be as generous as possible, but also as discerning as possible.
John W. Crowder 