> Rick,
>
> I wanted to take a moment to explain why we (Red Cross), for the most part,
> can only accept cash donations.
>
> Following a disaster (like this fire), we focus on getting the most needed
> assistance to those affected as quickly as possible. Financial donations
> allow us to do just that. For example, we will arrange for a place for our
> clients to sleep that night (and for the next few nights), food to eat and
> clothes to wear. This assistance is given in the form of a Client
> Assistance Card that functions similarly to a credit or debit card.
Yes, it is easier, but it is also more subject to abuse, such as what has been
reported after 9/11. Donations of items are less likely to be abused than
giving a card which is similar to a credit or debit card.
Due to this, it is safer to give items for the donor to ensure there is less
chance of abuse. If the Red Cross chooses to take the easy path, then it is
possible that people will choose to use another organization.
To be quite blunt, I am disappointed that the Red Cross has this view.
> Cash donations also allow us to purchase large quantities of goods to
> provide quality and consistent assistance.
>
> Accepting donations of clothing or other small items require resources to
> sort, process, store and transport. This takes the focus of our workers off
> the goal of providing that immediate assistance. And there are often hidden
> costs and quality control challenges with processing the donated items.
>
> One solution has been for us to identify a partner agency (i.e. Good Will,
> Salvation Army or a neighboring church) who does have the resources to
> handle those donated items. This partnership allows the Red Cross to focus
> on financial assistance and also provides an opportunity for the community
> to provide additional assistance in the form of donated items.
>
> I hope that satisfactorily addresses your question.
>
> Please feel free to contact me with any further comments or questions.
>
> Regards,
>
> Aaron Litwin
> Regional Officer
> American Red Cross
> Bay Area Chapter
> LitwinA@usa.redcross.org
--
K.
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