ASK KIM
Give to Tsunami Relief Online
by Kimberly Lankford

I've been following the reports of the incredible devastation from the tsunamis and would like to do something to help. Where can I get contact information for relief organizations that are dealing with this crisis?

There are many ways you can help. Many aid organizations are already on the front lines assisting the victims and their families, and they could definitely benefit from your contributions.

More than 114,000 people have already died in the tsunami and the World Health Organization warns that thousands more people are at risk because they don't have access to food, shelter, clean drinking water, sanitation and health care.

Americans have already contributed about $18 million to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which specializes in three key areas: water sanitation services, reuniting family members and relief supply distribution. For more about their programs and how to donate, visit the Red Cross's Web site.

UNICEF estimates that about one-third of the victims were children, who weren't strong enough to protect themselves against the tidal waves, and that many more were separated from their families during the floods. The organization is sending medical supplies, water purification kits, food, sanitation supplies, and is helping reunite lost children with their families. You can make a donation using your credit card on the UNICEF Web site.

USAID, the U.S. government agency responsible for economic and humanitarian assistance around the world, also has a list of relief agencies collecting donations of cash, food and other essentials.

Unfortunately, major disasters like this also bring out the worst in some people, namely rip-off artists trying to steal your money.

Do not reply to e-mail solicitations for donations.

If you make a donation online, enter the charity's Web address yourself and be sure your personal identification is entered into a secure site (look for https: in the address bar or a locked padlock in the lower right corner of your browser).

If you want to give to the most efficient charities, see my recent column for resources that can help you quickly look up their financial records and other information.