The devastating earthquake in Haiti has been pulling at all of our heartstrings for the past few weeks, and many of us are eager to help those who are so desperately in need. But if you have limited resources, you may be asking yourself:
Am I in a position financially to donate? Can I contribute without making a sizable dent in my monthly budget? If I can afford to only donate a few dollars, will it even matter?
The answer: absolutely! It is possible to help the earthquake victims while keeping your budget goals in check. And any size in donation, no matter how big or how small, will make a positive impact. Consider the following three ways to contribute:
1. Microdonations - Make a small-limit, large-heart microdonation on your credit card of $5 to $10 to one of several organizations, such as Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, and UNICEF. Charging a few bucks to your credit card won’t lead to financial ruin. To see a list of the best relief organizations who take microdonations, Click Here. On Feb 1st, or when your new cellphone billing cycle begins, text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10 to the American Red Cross or text YELE to 501501 to donate $5 to Yele Haiti.
2. Buy Something Awesome. The iTunes store is offering The Complete 2-Hour Hope For Haiti Now Concert in Full HD and Surround Sound for only $2.99. 100% of the purchase price will go to Haiti relief. Click here to get it (must have iTunes). Also, DoUntoOthersHaiti is now offering a red Haiti bracelet for only $7, or a stylin t-shirt for $15, to show your support for Haiti. 100% of your purchase goes directly to Haiti relief.
3. No Money? Donate or Click — Here’s How. Instead of making a monetary donation, clear our your closets and pantries. Check with local church groups in your community to see if they’re planning a drive for clothing, food, or supplies. If not, volunteer your time and start your own. Also consider donating gently worn footwear to www.shoes2share.com According to the charity’s website, many businesses and organizations across the country are providing drop-boxes for shoes, as well as much-needed supplies. Also, you can also give free food relief to Haiti just by clicking on the sponsors link at www.thehungersite.com. Now that’s easy!
Note: The Center for International Disaster Information is urging contributors to donate cash rather than “in kind goods” such as clothing and canned food. Cash donations will get Haitians the help they need in the most useful and efficient manner.
We’ve all been struggling through the economic recession, but our challenges are nothing in comparison to what Haitians are currently facing. If you cut back on Starbucks a few times for the next month, make dinner at home instead of eating out one night, or cut back on your minutes or text messages for the month, it will easily make up for your contributions. It really doesn’t cost that much to score a few karma points. Those in need will be grateful for any size in contribution you can afford. Be a part of the global response.
