We've been working on contacting friends in Kathmandu, and directing support to Nepal. Because of our family's connection to Nepal, and my summer project, many people have asked "where should we donate money?" Our suggestion is to give BIG and also give DIRECT.... what does that mean?
First, give to a big international NGO that is currently working on earthquake relief. They can move massive amounts of supplies and equipment into Nepal... A list of highly rated organizations with a long history in Nepal is on the right side-bar. -->>>>>
Second, give to a direct funding project that delivers money straight into the hands of Nepalis and Tibetans. This type of giving, often through a crowd-funding site, cuts through the red tape, and gets money directly to individuals, families, or local schools & organizations who will get to work immediately. Nepalis know best what Nepalis need! Go with a recommendation from friends with trusted connections in Nepal. A few hundred dollars goes a long way in Nepal. There are now hundreds of small direct projects, but listed below are four that we can personally vouch for:
Nepal Quake - Help Manasarovar Community (Manasarovar Academy is the incredible school where Eliza plans to teach this summer. Many students, teachers & their families are now living under tarps, and need food, water, medicine, etc.)
One Village at a Time – Help for Nuwakot & Gorkha (This project is organized by Krishna Lohani, our longtime friend and former travel/trekking agent. He is coordinating food, shelter, medicine and construction projects in 2 remote villages near the quake’s epicenter.)
Himalayan Youth Foundation – EarthquakeRelief (This is the Florida-based NGO that funds the KTM student boarding house where Eliza will be working this summer.)
The Karma Project – Nepal Earthquake Relief Fund (This is coordinated by neighbor Glen Young, and supports Karma Sherpa and his extended family who lost their KTM home. Their home village near Lukla also sustained damage.)
If you haven't yet had the chance to reach out, these are excellent direct pathways to assist Nepalis & Tibetans in their time of great suffering.
Again, one of the BEST WAYS to HELP is to SHARE this appeal! Thanks!!!
Hi Eliza,
ReplyDeleteThanks for this informative and heartfelt post. We've been talking about the best way we can offer our support to people who are suffering in the aftermath of now two huge seismic events, and I really your informed perspective and suggestions.