The powerful earthquake that struck Morocco late Friday night killed at least 1,000 people, with at least several hundred more injured. It was the strongest to hit the area in more than a century.
Volunteers and aid groups have mobilized to help support the victims of the earthquake and provide medical care to those who have been affected.
Here is some guidance for those who wish to help.
First, do your research
Before donating, do some research to verify that the organization is reputable, especially if it is lesser-known. Charity Navigator and Guidestar are two resources that provide information on nonprofits and aid agencies and can direct you to reputable organizations.
And if you think an organization or individual is committing fraud, you can report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud, part of the Justice Department.
How you can help
Moroccan Red Crescent Society rescue teams were on the ground with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to support search and rescue operations and provide medical and transportation. You can donate to their Disaster Response Emergency Fund here.
Global Giving, which helps local nonprofit agencies, is collecting donations to help provide survivors with food, fuel, clean water, medicine and shelter. As needs evolve, the fund will then transition to focus on recovery and rebuilding efforts, the organization said.
The United Nations Children’s Fund, better known as UNICEF, said it is ready to help the Moroccan government with immediate needs. UNICEF is accepting donations.
Doctors Without Borders, which responds to medical emergencies around the world, said it is sending teams to Morocco to assess local needs and provide support if necessary. It is collecting donations here.
For anyone near the quake area looking to help, the Marrakesh Regional Blood Transfusion Center has also urged people, especially those in Marrakesh, to donate blood.
Source : Nytimes
