Help the Relief Effort

Earthquakes are tragedies that don't know about boundaries, age, gender, and social and economic status. When earthquakes strike, lives change and priorities switch.

What can people in non stricken areas do to help those who just faced terrible losses?

There are basic needs that need to be met. Food, clothing, and shelter are at the forefront for the majority of victims. Major relief organizations rely on prior and current donations to fulfill those needs. You can choose to donate items in any of those three areas.

However, there are other needs that cannot be left unattended. These are needs that, perhaps, are not seen as most pressing; however, they are, none the less, important.

Children

Think back at your early childhood days. What comforted you when sick? What brought a smile on your face? What shared your secrets?

It is possible that the answer is "a stuffed animal." These soft and cuddly creatures bring a sense of belonging to soothe the most lost soul of all. When you will go to your local charity organization to donate money, clothing, or food, bring in also a stuffed animal or two. A child's day will be comforted by the furry creature.

Coloring books, blank paper, and coloring tools are going to help a child pass the time. It might even relieve stress as the child draws the events that rocked his life to the core. Many psychologists use drawings to let the children express their anger, fear, and frustration. Add a note pad, a coloring book, and crayons to your box of donations and help a child externalize his feelings.

Books can help a child escape, even if for a moment, the tragedy that has touched him so hard. Simple books that bring color and laughter into a child's life can bring temporary relief to a child in such a stressful and dramatic situation.

Women and Babies

Tragedy does not stop the regular cycle of life for the survivors. Women, as young as ten, will need hygiene supplies to take care of their monthly needs. Add a few items to your box of donations.

Mothers, who just gave birth and are nursing, may be in need of supplies to take care of tender skin around the nursing area. Check to see what would be the best item to send that will not cause unpleasant skin reactions. |

Think about donating diapers and ointments. Baby rattles or music boxes to help soothe a baby will also be appreciated.

Elderly

These people have years on them and have stories to tell. Surviving an earthquake of such magnitude may be one of the last things they will do of such intensity.

Some of them may be wheelchair bound, while some may walk with a cane. These items are now lost under the rubble, but they are still very much needed. Contact a local organization to see how to donate a wheel chair or a walking cane.

Items for general use

Prepare and send hygiene kits that include toothpaste, toothbrushes, liquid soap, razor, deodorant, toilet paper, and a washcloth.

Think about sending towels, baby blankets, and paper products such as napkins, plates, and cups.

Flashlights with batteries, or flashlights that work by shaking them prior to use, are useful items to send. The same goes for battery operated or hand cranked radios. The first help see through the night; the latter help keep an individual informed.

If you choose to send food, send canned items as they will be much easier to prepare, even in the absence of a stove. Don't forget to add a manual can opener. Another food type that is not important, but may bring some comfort, falls under the sweets category.
Send candy (not chocolate as it might melt) or other sweet snacks. They don't have nutritional value, but they will help ease the stress.

Remember that donations don't have to be big in nature to make a difference in someone's stricken life. Even one small item will help alleviate someone's situation and lift someone's spirit.