RE:OT - EarthquakeGood thoughts and deeds.
I would like to donate as well, however never through the Red Cross. I would like to find a better way, or organization but do not know of any good ones. I know there are many that are much worse. Open to suggestions.
Unfortunately, the ability for victims of disasters to obtain aid from the Red Cross has historically been a disaster in itself. The many past Red Cross scandals leave one very hesitant and leery to donate. Google is full of negative press.
in Haiti, since the earthquake in 2010, there was about half a billion in donations, and 125 million went to Red Cross 'Internal Expenses'. They built 6 homes. Nearly all of the rest of it has gone to NGOs and private contractors, and they take their cuts as well.
In the aftermath of hurricane Sandy and Isaac in the US, 40% of emergency vehicles were reassigned to serve as PR backdrops for news feeds. Many trucks were told to drive around empty, flying the flag and giving the illusion they were providing disaster relief. They were ill prepared and disorganized, ordering thousands of catered meals, but didn't know where to take them so half of it was spoiled. Meanwhile Americans opened their wallets and poured millions in donations to the Red Cross to help the victims.
After the bushfires in Australia, people donated about 90 million to the Red Cross, yet aid was delayed for months and for some, years, then news came out that they have squirelled away millions for future disasters. Victims were furious at the lack of response.
The biggest complaint seems to be that donations made for specific disasters or aid has gone into general funds and their blood business, never reaching those in immediate need intended by the donor.
A friend of mine once went to Africa, directly to orphanages, and saw what the kids really needed, then personally went to town and bought stuff for the children. Sandals, clothes, pencils, paper, and kid stuff. All along he was hounded by people wanting to do the shopping for him, but he shook them off and refused. We sent him money. That is the only instance of 100% of donated funds getting to those in need that I was ever aware of.
Since I'm not flying to Turkey or Syria myself, I don't have the right answer.