Considerations for Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief
Date Published: January 14, 2010
The magnitude of the loss of human life, grief, and destruction wreaked by the earthquake in Haiti is overwhelming. The outpouring of compassion and charitable impulse has prompted a great deal of soul-searching about how best to help those affected by this enormous tragedy. For TPI clients and others who are grappling with what disaster relief agencies and rebuilding efforts to support, we offer a brief set of criteria and questions that donors may want to consider:
On the ground presence and reach:
Has the organization had an ongoing presence, prior to January 2010, in most or all of Haiti?
Does the organization have solid relationships and partnerships enabling it to be effective and efficient in addressing critical needs in the affected areas?
Is the organization well-positioned to work within the existing infrastructure to get resources to where they are most needed?
Effectiveness:
Does the organization operate in a way that is cost-effective, not overly bureaucratic, and results-oriented? (One potential indicator is how the agency is rated by charity rating groups like Charity Navigator, indicating that the organization operates in a cost-effective and fiscally responsible fashion.)
Does the organization have a solid track record of success and expertise in addressing important needs in the affected areas and/or elsewhere?
Collaboration and cultural sensitivity:
Does the organization support community-based approaches, work with local organizations and volunteers, and approach its work in ways that empower people in need and organizations who operate on the ground?
Sustainability and potential for long-term impact:
Does the organization support sustainable approaches beyond just disaster relief that could have a long-term impact on people’s lives?
Once the immediate crisis has been addressed, what kind of staying power will the organization have to help with the long-term rebuilding that will be needed in Haiti?
If you would like further assistance or guidance – or if your company would like to explore creating a natural disaster philanthropic response plan – please feel free to contact Leslie Pine, Senior Vice President, Programs at lpine@tpi.org.
