I posted on Darfur for Bloggers Unite for Human Rights earlier today, but a friend noted that people are really focused on the earthquake in China at present. With more than 50,000 feared dead, this 7.9 magnitude quake is a horrendous disaster and people around the world are eager to help (see links below).I also would like to find a charity that provides rescue equipment or sends in trained rescue teams. While much of this is coming from nearby governments — since the Chinese government has requested rescue assistance specifically, this would be a good area to target one’s donations. If anyone can recommend a rescue charity, please email me on DailyMitzvahBlog [at] gmail [dot] com.
In the interim, a quick spotlight and links for China-specific efforts by Mercy Corps, UNICEF, and the International Red Cross/ Red Crescent.
- Mercy Corps receives high praise for their efficiency and the percentage of donations going directly to aid those in need. For their China efforts, they are working with their established on-ground partner, China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation.
- The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is “rushing medical supplies, tents, and clean water to children affected by powerful earthquake in China.” You can donate directly via this link.
- The Red Cross has long been active in China, with an extensive network of Chinese staffed and operated Red Cross/Red Crescent societies. I’ve been wary about the Red Cross after questions were raised about their accountability and oversight after Hurricane Katrina. But they’re still the world-recognized emergency assistance organization, and their heavy presence in China is certainly and advantage. The American Red Cross site has more on the Red Cross / Red Crescent response and links for donations.
Photo credit: REUTERS/Claro Cortes IV. Courtesy of AlertNet.org.
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