During a time of crisis and natural disasters, both domestically and overseas, Americans and American non-profit organizations generously donate their time and/or money to those in need. When the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on April 25, 2015, killing over 8,500 people with thousands still missing, the U.S. government committed a total of $10 million for response and recovery efforts. American non-profits such as AmeriCares and the American Red Cross raised $750,000 and $300,000 respectively in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake. Donations came from all over the country, including two young boys in Minnesota who raised $5,000 by making and selling "4NEPAL" bracelets.
As the need for additional resources in the Nepal relief effort continues, crowdfunding websites such as Indiegogo have become a popular destination for people looking to donate money. For example, The Global Shapers Community Kathmandu, a registered non-profit organization, has used an Indiegogo campaign to raise close to $150,000 from 1,749 donors online. Crowdrise, another crowdfunding website, has raised $2,209,772 for over 100 organizations. The International Medical Corps has deployed mobile medical units to provide emergency care and vital relief supplies, including medicine, hygiene kits, shelter materials, blankets and water purification supplies.
Reddit, the popular Internet website, has created a Google spreadsheet listing helpful information about various organizations that are working in Nepal. This guide can serve as an excellent starting point for people who are looking to donate money or volunteer to help Nepal recover from the tragic disaster from April 2015. As the death toll continues to rise, it is important to continue supporting organizations that are working tirelessly on the ground in Nepal.
The HAND Foundation strongly encourages our readers to get involved by donating or volunteering for relief organizations.