As Americans open their wallets to help earthquake victims in Haiti, a longtime charity watchdog warns givers to think twice about their "impulse donations."
Recalling the well-intentioned efforts of groups who sent coats and fuzzy winter scarves to victims of the 2004 tropical Asian tsunami, and the outright scams launched by the ill-intentioned, Daniel Borochoff, president of the American Institute of Philanthropy, advises givers to target groups with strong track records in the area. They should donate to aid organizations that know Haiti, understand the needs of Haitians, and have well-organized distribution systems for actually delivering that aid.
"We shouldn't repeat the mistakes of the Tsunami relief efforts" said Borochoff. With the outpouring of donations, there were still big problems coordinating between groups. Supply lines were frequently clogged with the wrong supplies and relief didn't reach the right places, said Borochoff.
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