Private Donations Surpass Government Pledge in Tsunami Relief Efforts

Private donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations have surpassed the $350 million pledged by the US government in response to the tsunami disaster. The speed and scale of these donations have overwhelmed aid organizations, with charities receiving substantial contributions from unexpected sources. As President Bush noted, the American people have been the greatest source of generosity in this crisis.

Key Takeaways:

• Private donations have exceeded $180 million from seven charities, with a significant portion coming from unexpected sources such as children holding bake sales and individuals walking in off the street.
• Aid experts attribute the scale of the disaster and the timing at the end of the year as contributing factors to the response.
• The Internet has played a significant role in the surge of private donations, with online donations to the Red Cross already nearing the levels seen after 9/11.
• Major news organizations, online retailers, and non-profit organizations have collaborated to provide charity information and online donation platforms, increasing the ease and accessibility of donations.
• Aid officials emphasize the importance of providing food, water, medical care, and rehabilitation efforts that will be needed for years to come.
• Save the Children received 2,500 calls on New Year's Eve, with donations ranging from $10 to $300,000.

Statistics:

• Private donations reported by seven charities: $180 million
• Government pledge: $350 million
• Online donations to the Red Cross: $42 million (nearly half of the total)
• Credit card donations received by Network for Good: $84 million
• Percentage of online donations received through Network for Good: 60%

Sources:

• NPR News, Washington, Kathleen Schalch reporting
• Save the Children, Fiona Hodgson, Vice President
• Center for Disaster Information, Suzanne Brooks
• Red Cross, Lori Reinhart, Director of Disaster Fund Raising