How to Help in a Crisis Situation

By: Borja Santos Porras

When a crisis hits, from natural disasters to the outbreak of war, our first instinct is to try to help, but how is this best achieved? Borja Santos Porras lays out the most effective ways to provide aid in emergencies.

Transcription

First Steps:

  • Channel your help through the NGOs and humanitarian agencies working in the area. Working in a humanitarian setting requires professional organizations and staff with experience and expertise.
  • Only share news from trustworthy sources in order to prevent fake news and information that could spread hate.
  • Avoid sending in-kind donations, such as food or clothing, in the immediate aftermath of the emergency so as not to overwhelm the logistics of the local humanitarian actors.

    • How to Work with NGOs

    Before you decide on the NGO, first check:

  • What type of work do they do?
  • Whom do they support with their work?
  • What type of collaborations do they offer?
  • Have they made a call for donations?

    • Why Monetary Donations Are Preferred

  • In-kind donations are not always appropriate for the needs of the local population, especially in rapidly-developing situations.
  • Donated goods can create logistical complications for NGOs and local organizations and may come with extra costs.
  • The local population of an affected area always react with an immediate response that saves lives. Domestic organizations and NGOs reinforce this response by employing locals and buying materials that stimulate the local economy.

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