![Group of smiling boys leaning on USAID food bags Group of smiling boys leaning on USAID food bags](/sites/default/files/styles/max_325x325/public/uploads/images//bha-web-howtohelp-banner-1200x675.jpg?itok=Plxb618J)
The best way to help those affected by a disaster overseas is to make a monetary donation to a reputable humanitarian organization working in the disaster zone.
As a U.S. government agency, USAID does not accept donations for its crisis response efforts, but non-governmental organizations may issue appeals for donations depending on the crisis.
There are several ways to identify reputable, established organizations that make the most of monetary or material donations:
- The Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) posts lists of organizations that are responding to particular disasters.
- InterAction, a coalition of non-profit humanitarian organizations, frequently posts list of responding members on its website.
- GlobalGiving may list disaster-recovery projects that would benefit from public support.
"Watchdog” organizations that offer information on responding organizations include: The Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance, The American Institute of Philanthropy, GuideStar, and Charity Navigator.