As rescuers continue to search for survivors of the earthquakes in Venezuela, and citizens work to dig out friends and neighbors, governments around the world have pledged aid and resources.
Here are some additional ways you can help.
Before you give, do your research.
Before you make a donation, especially to a lesser-known organization, you should do some research to make sure it is reputable. Sites like Charity Navigator and Guidestar grade nonprofits based on transparency and effectiveness. The Internal Revenue Service also allows you to search its database to find out whether an organization is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
And if you suspect an organization or individual of committing fraud, you can report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud, part of the Justice Department.
Many national and international organizations are helping.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, which is the U.N. disaster relief agency, is working to put urban search and rescue teams on the ground, and working with authorities in Venezuela to assess priorities. You can donate here.
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, better known as UNICEF, said it is already on the ground working to help children and families in the aftermath of the temblor.
The I Love Venezuela Foundation is raising funds to supply food, water, medical support, hygiene kits, shelter supplies, logistics, and direct support for vulnerable families in affected areas. Here’s the fund-raiser.
Caritas, an international Catholic humanitarian organization, is accepting donations to its national partners in Venezuela.
Direct Relief is accepting donations as it coordinates with regional aid groups to help provide emergency medical supplies.
Save the Children has staff and local partners in the country and is asking for support as it prepares to provide health services, child protection support, shelter, food, and essential relief items as needed.
Global Giving, which helps local nonprofit agencies, is collecting donations to provide emergency relief, shelter, medical care, and recovery support.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it is assessing the needs of its staff after its headquarters in Venezuela suffered “critical damage.” The organization said it is activating its emergency response fund and continuing to operate hospitals and clinics. You can donate here.
Global Empowerment Mission, an international emergency aid nonprofit, is seeking donations as it deploys emergency response teams.
