Saturday’s 7.8-magnitude earthquake left Nepal with devastating losses. Over 5,000 people have been confirmed dead by Nepalese officials. Nepal’s Prime Minister said that the total number of deceased could amount to over 10,000.
Nearly 500,000 people have been displaced from their homes according to reports. Many people in Nepal are now sleeping outdoors. Either because their home was destroyed, or because they fear further damage from aftershocks. The health and safety of the remaining Nepalese people are the main concern.
If you want to help Nepal, here are a few things to keep in mind. First, don’t donate goods. Donated items are harder to distribute than relief items purchased by the actual charity. Second, don’t fly over to Nepal to help. Untrained volunteers are for most part, more of a hindrance than a help.
The price of a plane ticket to Nepal could be used to fund relief efforts already in the country. Rather than rushing to Nepal, consider donating.
Donations are the best way to help Nepal right now. Before you donate, find out where exactly your money will go, and make sure the organization you’re donating to is reputable.
Below is a list of nonprofits that are providing relief for Nepal. Each of them has at least a three star rating from Charity Navigator.
PayPal has set up a giving fund that lets you easily choose from an assortment of charities to donate to.
Action Against Hunger’s mission is to combat global hunger. They save lives by preventing and treating malnutrition during and after emergencies.
Direct Relief provides medical assistance to people affected by poverty or disaster.
AmeriCares delivers humanitarian aid, medicines, and medical supplies to suffering areas around the world.
Brother’s Brother Foundation provides educational, agricultural, and medical resources to places in need all around the world.
Save the Children focuses on children’s rights and providing relief and support to children.
All Hands Volunteers supports volunteers with tools, housing, meals, and organized work.
Convoy of Hope is a faith-based charity that provides disaster relief.
charity: water builds freshwater wells and teaches communities simple sanitation practices.
Doctors Without Borders provides emergency medical care, including surgery.
Sources: Time.com, Slate, Washington Post
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