Center for International Disaster Information

A common, hasty response to news of an international disaster is to begin amassing common household items.  These collections often take the form of a clothing drive or a toy drive. The reaction is understandable and reflects the generosity of individuals and communities who empathize with disaster victims.

Even so, no collection should be started until a reliable source has communicated a clear and specific understanding of unmet needs.  Put another way, if a relief agency involved on site of the disaster did not ask for it, please do not send it.  Otherwise, it may be disposed of like refuse.  Someone must receive the collection, sit it through customs, pay appropriate fees, transport it to the affected area and distribute it.

Another important element of a collection drive is having a clear mechanism for communicating to donors when the collection is to stop.  As is too often the case, excess material donations must be disposed of at host country expense, which can put a strain on diplomatic ties.

Though kindhearted and well-intended, offers of another body to drive trucks, set up tents, and feed children are rarely accepted.  Put another way, if a relief agency is not coordinating your participation in a disaster response, please do not go to the disaster site.  See Volunteering After a Disaster and What to Do for more information on how to become positively involved.