Financial Donations

    Monetary donations are the most effective form of assistance because they allow humanitarian organizations to purchase the exact type and quantity of items most needed by those affected in Iraq.   Monetary donations therefore have several logistical advantages over commodity contributions:

• Monetary donations are more cost-effective than commodity contributions, because the cost of international shipping often exceeds the cost of procuring the commodities within the region.
• Humanitarian organizations can use monetary donations to specifically procure items on a priority-needs basis in the exact quantity and quality required. Commodities procured by humanitarian organizations can also be sorted, labeled and packaged precisely in the manner necessary for efficient storage and distribution.
• Monetary donations allow humanitarian organizations to procure commodities that are more likely to be culturally and evnironmentally appropriate, and consistent with traditional practices and consumption patterns
• Monetary donations support the economy of the affected region when procured locally, thereby contributing to the eventual goal of self-reliance and economic growth

More information on donations can be found at the following websites:

• InterAction's Guide to Appropriate Giving
• The Center for International Disaster Information's Guidelines for Effective Private Sector International Disaster Assistance
• PAHO's Guide for Effective Aid

For guidance on making an informed donation decision, see the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance