Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls is a frequent donator to local charities. In the following article, Andrew discusses the importance of donating to disaster relief and emergency response efforts.

Nothing triggers the giving spirit more than seeing other humans suddenly in desperate need.

Earthquakes and hurricanes lead to a very real struggle to survive for many. Pandemics can wipe out communities large and small, rich and poor. Basic needs like food, water, and shelter instantly become threatened.

About $5.2 billion was donated in 2020 at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and 90% of that went directly to immediate disaster relief. That’s 15 times more than contributions recorded just a year before.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls says that while many philanthropic avenues are opened in the wake of disasters, it’s not always easy to figure out the most efficient ways to give for providing relief to those in need. Here’s what everyone should know when it comes to donating during emergencies.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls Says to Find the Right Organization

There are usually numerous tried-and-true charitable organizations that step up to the plate when disaster strikes. These include well-known names such as the Red Cross, UNICEF, and the Salvation Army.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls explains that before giving to any charity, one must thoroughly research the organization to make sure it has a good reputation, particularly regrading how it uses donations. Nonprofit watchdogs such as Charity Navigator provide constantly updated lists of the most trusted disaster relief funds and organizations.

One can even search through specific causes, such as relief for families following a devastating string of tornadoes in Oklahoma or groups working to end gun violence in certain cities.

Pay Attention to What’s Actually Needed

Many consider cash to be king when it comes to crisis relief, and there are many instances where cash donations are preferred to fuel emergency needs as effectively as possible. Other times, the best way to give will depend greatly on the particular crisis.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls says that organizations commonly release lists of their most-needed goods and services for the emergency situations they’re focused on. This can range from canned goods and bottled water to construction equipment, medicine, or clothing. However, not all donated goods can be easily used if they are difficult to transport.

When giving cash, it’s recommended not to send it via email or other similar means. Donating cash in person is fine, but using a credit card or check is preferred, according to the IRS.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls notes that donating in ways that match the outlined needs results in the most effective delivery of emergency care. The Better Business Bureau also rates specific location and national charities.

Think Long-Term

Emergencies require quick action, but the real test comes years down the line. Many organizations, including the Red Cross, rely on steady donations to help people recover after the emergency phase of relief needs has ended.

Such assistance helps groups offer long-term financial help to impacted families and fund grants for recovery services undertaken by local communities. Disaster relief doesn’t simply end when the disaster does.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls says that donations and assistance are needed year after year, for up to a decade or even more, so look into whether automatic monthly donations are accepted. Such donations can be used for future relief efforts or go towards new emergency situations.

Consider Volunteering

Assistance isn’t always monetary. Organizations greatly rely on the help of volunteers before, during, and after disasters, including that of doctors, firemen, and average citizens.

While FEMA says that no one should deploy themselves to specific disaster areas, those interested in providing on-the-ground volunteer relief services should contact trusted organizations directly to gauge the level of need. This could mean working at a temporary shelter, delivering goods by plane or truck, or even manning phones to collect donations.

Workplace Giving

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls indicates that it’s common for employers to launch employee giving programs, especially when the organization is a nonprofit, is part of the federal government, or has a long partnership with a philanthropic organization.

Such programs may occur regularly throughout the year, but they are most common during the fall and winter months. They may be raising funds for one group or multiple organizations at the same time. In times of crisis, employers might launch relief programs for their own employees who are impacted around the world. Employees who decide to give are usually able to do so through one-off or monthly paycheck deductions.

Think Differently About the Definition of Crisis

It’s easy to view a hurricane or volcano eruption as a disaster, but there are other forms of epidemics that tend to stay under the radar, such as threats to human rights or health care.

Andrew Ticknor of Sioux Falls notes that these can be seen as disasters in many communities, as well as to those who choose to donate. It’s important for one to find a cause that doesn’t just need substantial help, but is also aligned with one’s personal values and priorities.