NZAID

Advice on public giving

also see |  Disasters: How to help   |  Chilean earthquake appeals   |  Haiti earthquake appeals 
 
|  Pacific cyclone appeals  |  Pacific tsunami appeals  |   Pacific tsunami update  

Giving a cash donation – no matter what size – is an excellent way of showing support to those affected by natural disasters.

  • Another way to help is to organise fundraising events through community organizations, schools, workplaces and then donate to an existing appeal

At this stage, we are advising against the public collecting and donating of unsolicited goods

Why?

  • Unsolicited goods can clog-up supply chains and put extra stress on those working in country to distribute essential supplies
  • It is best to source goods locally as it helps the local economy and overall recovery
  • Although well-meaning, it's easy to send the wrong item and disposal of unsolicited goods can be very difficult and a financial and logistical burden for the country-affected

If you or anyone you know is planning to send goods, please use the following check-list:

  1. Is there an identified need for this item in the disaster area?
  2. Is there a way of getting this item from New Zealand to affected area ?
  3. Once the item arrives in the affected area is there way of getting it to the people who need it?