Community Foundation of New Jersey

Suggestions for Myanmar Disaster

There are current reports of over 22,000 deaths and another 44,000 missing. However, enormous efforts need to be implemented to fend off a second wave of deaths due to lack of water, shelter, sanitation, and health facilities.

Complicating efforts is the country's restrictions on outside assistance. The military regime generally requires aid go through governmental agencies. Nonprofits are working with local organizations on the Thai border to deliver supplies and assistance to victims as directly as possible.

Some organizations such as World Vision and Save the Children were already stationed in Myanmar on a permanent basis before the disaster. This means they are currently able to make appeals for donations they know they will be able to utilize more directly.

Many of our families are using their funds to respond to the biggest natural disaster in Asia since the tsunami of December 2004. Here are four suggestions for recommending a grant or donating directly online:

1. Save the Children is focused on providing food, water and shelter. They are planning a $10 million appeal, and are one of the few organizations with large number of employees inside the country. 800.728.3843
2. World Vision is providing clothing, tarpaulins, blankets, rice and water. They are appealing for $3 million, and already had a large number of employees inside the country when the storm hit. 888.511.6593
3. CARE is providing emergency food, aid, shelter and supplies to survivors in the hardest hit areas, including Yangon (the former Rangoon). 800.422.7385
4. Doctors Without Borders is distributing food, water, and first-necessity items. They are also running four clinics. Note that donations will be placed in their general fund, as a separate fund has not been established. 888.392.0392

If you have a more specific request, need more information or have any questions please contact Nancy Hamilton at 973.267.5533 x240 or email.