After a series of earthquakes, and as a result, avalanches struck Nepal and neighboring countries on 25th April (7.8 magnitude), and again on 12th May (7.3 magnitude).You have probably been inundated with images of devastation and tragedy pouring across your social media feeds and TV screens. Of course after seeing these heartbreaking videos and images, the natural question for many people is, “What can I do to help?”
Of course, naturally, large financial support is the main thing needed if this already impoverished country is to cope and rebuild after claiming thousands of lives, and flattening susceptible buildings and landmarks (such as the Dharahara Tower) which were not made to withstand the extensive damage, many of which are regarded as treasured landmarks, religious artifacts as well as being major tourist attractions bringing in large amounts of tourists to their Capital City of Kathmandu. The country has few resources to deal with the medical catastrophe and even fewer to deal with the rebuilding effort to come; they need the help now. But, as with any major disasters and humanitarian emergencies you need to make sure that the charitable efforts are reaching organizations which are making a real difference and are reaching the real victims of the tragedies.
I personally witnessed the beauty this country has to offer last year on a visit to see Mount Everest. It is devastating knowing that the captivating and awe-inspiring landmarks we visited were destroyed, and even worse to hear that some of the hospitable, generous and humble Nepalese who touched our souls, had lost livelihoods, homes and even family members due to this disaster.
If you want to help, we suggest you make an online donation to one of the many reputable organizations helping the victims of Nepal and other affected area. A few are listed below:
UNICEF: UNICEF, is a United Nations program dedicated to helping children in developing countries, and it is on the ground in Nepal aiding children and families. Donate to UNICEF’s relief efforts online: www.unicef.org/infobycountry/nepal.html
The International Committee of The Red Cross: The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the largest humanitarian network in the world whose mission it is to alleviate human suffering, protect life and health, and uphold human dignity, especially during armed conflicts and other emergencies. It is present in every country and supported by millions of volunteers. You can donate to relief efforts on their international website: www.icrc.org/eng/donations/?o=421431
Or directly through the Kuwait Red Crescent Society: http://www.krcs.org.kw/donation/
Oxfam: Oxfam is an international organization, working in 90 countries, dedicated to fighting poverty. It also has a presence in Nepal. You can donate to Oxfam’s relief efforts by visiting: https://secure2.oxfamamerica.org/page/content/nepal_earthquake/
Save The Children: Save the Children, is an international non-governmental organization that promotes children’s rights, provides relief and helps support children in developing countries. You can help with their relief efforts in Nepal by visiting: https://secure.savethechildren.org
CARE: CARE (Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere) is a large humanitarian organization, with presence in Nepal and 86 other countries. Visiting its website will take you to a page where you can donate to CARE’s relief efforts in the country: www.care.org
Long after the images leave your newsfeed and TV screens the people of Nepal will be living and suffering through this disaster. Some are still too scared to return to their homes for fear that an aftershock will crush them in their homes. If you cannot afford to donate please use your networks to spread the word. This rebuild will take a worldwide effort.
