In the wake of the the catastrophic earthquake in Nepal, several people have asked me for suggestions on how they can help. There are lots of big organisations working in Nepal, including the Red Cross, Save the Children, Doctors Without Borders, Care and others. All are worthy of your donations.
There are also several websites that host funding drives and make donating money easy. Global Giving is a good one; click here for details.
If you'd rather donate to a smaller scale, local, grass-roots organisation that have a proven track record in Nepal, consider the following organisations, several of which I know personally:
The Mountain Fund - A locally-based organisation run by the
experienced American Scott Maclennan from a base in Mankhu, between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Excellent local contacts and deep roots in Nepal mean that your donation will go
directly to help people in the village. Donate here.
Education Restoration Nepal - A new organisation established in reaction to
the earthquake. ERN focuses on rebuilding schools, combining short-term
assistance with the long-term picture; investing in education for the future.
Helambu Relief Distribution Centre - Focuses on the Helambu region, a popular trekking area and one of the worst hit regions of Nepal. Donate here.
American Himalayan Foundation - Has been doing excellent work in Nepal for years.
Sunsar Maya - Does good work with Nepal's orphans, of whom there are now many more in Nepal
Sunsar Maya - Does good work with Nepal's orphans, of whom there are now many more in Nepal
If none of those fit, check other grass-roots organisation on this list from Outside Magazine.
Bradley