Member-only story
What is the Best Way to Help People During A Tragedy?
Hint: the answer isn’t to send them your stretched-out sweater with a small hole.
The fight in my neighborhood Nextdoor group was as predictable as it was frustrating.
“We need to help the people of Ukraine!” someone posted. “I’m gathering used clothing and blankets to send over. Everybody, please look to see what you can spare for these poor people in need.”
“Of course, yes! You are a wonderful person for doing this. I will bring you things immediately.” The positive replies started pouring in.
“Excuse me,” says a quiet voice in the back. “This is wonderful but please let’s make sure we are only sending things they need. It will cost a lot to transport these items from England to the Ukrainian border. Maybe it’s better to just send money.”
“What are you talking about?” come the replies. “Can’t you see the video footage? They are fleeing with nothing. Anything we send will be appreciated.”
“Well, no,” says someone else, “Read this link from someone actually there and doing the job of sorting out all the donations pouring in. Not only does it cost a lot of money to transport goods from far away, but much of what gets sent isn’t usable so it wastes workers' time and they have…
