Good intentions can go a long way. In the wake of the wildfires in California, many people want to provide any assistance they can. However, the types of items you donate during disaster relief could be hurting more than helping. Weight loss drinks, chandeliers, prom gowns, and even pigs are some of the items that have been donated in the past, and none of those things are needed. What’s more the biggest thing that’s often donated is used clothing. According to FEMA, clothing is NEVER needed after a disaster. Donate used clothing locally to an organization that has a year round mission with used clothing, or sell used clothing at a yard sale and donate the money raised to a responding organization. The worst items do nothing more than get in the way. The bags are heavy, they take up space on vessels, and once they get to where they’re going they become moldy and difficult to store, with most getting tossed. The best way to donate to a disaster is in monetary form, as long as you’re giving to a reputable source like the Red Cross or The Salvation Army.
