Lexington Baptist Association

In the wake of the Haiti earthquake, as concerned Baptists, our first instinct is rush to save lives and send volunteer teams to Haiti to help with relief. Our effort can only be helpful to Haiti if we understand some of the issues related to disaster relief. Here are five myths about disaster relief.

1. Collecting blankets, shoes and clothing is a cost-effective way to help.

The cost of shipping these items from around the country—let alone the time it takes to sort, pack and ship them—is prohibitive and entails much higher cost than the value of the goods themselves. In addition, supplies sent must meet international standards for humanitarian relief and are packaged to be ready to deploy as soon as a crisis strikes. Cash donations are the best, most cost-efficient way to help aid groups deliver these life-saving supplies quickly, purchase supplies close to the disaster zone when possible and replenish their stocks in preparation for future disasters.

2. If I send cash, my help won’t get there.

The Lexington Baptist Association and our Southern Baptist disaster relief agencies (NAMB, BGR, SCBC) send 100 % of the donation to be used in direct relief. Other reputable relief organization should spend at least 80% of the funds collected for direct relief. Donors have a right and a responsibility to ask aid groups how they will be using those donations, and what will be done with donations raised in excess of the need. Transparent and effective organizations will readily provide that information.

3. Volunteers are desperately needed in emergency situations.

While hands-on service may feel like a better way to help in a crisis, disaster response is a highly technical and sensitive effort. Only professionals or volunteers with specialized skills and overseas disaster experience should be deployed to disaster sites. Volunteers without those skills can do more harm than good, and siphon off critical logistics and translation services. Qualified disaster professionals ensure that help is delivered effectively, safely and efficiently. However, Southern Baptist is committed to the long-term rebuilding of Haiti, much like our effort in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. A large number of volunteers will be needed to rebuild Haiti in years to come. We pray that Southern Baptist believers will lead many Haitians to Christ and to disciple them in the faith as we send numerous volunteer teams to rebuild Haiti.

4. Unaccompanied children should be adopted as quickly as possible to get them out of dangerous conditions.

Hearing about the specific needs of children often sparks a desire to adopt children who seem to have lost their families. However, early in a crisis, children need to be protected, but should remain in their home countries until authorities can confirm the locations of their family members and explore adoption possibilities within their own communities and cultures. International adoption may be the best solution for some children, but it is too early to know for sure in the first weeks of a crisis. If the US government chooses to bring injured victims and their families to cities like Columbia, SC for treatment, Lexington Baptist will have the opportunity for direct ministry with the Haitian victims.

5. People are helpless in the face of natural disasters.

Even in the poorest countries like Haiti, people often reveal a great deal of inner strength and often show resourcefulness that can save lives. While support and aid are necessary, the Haitian people are by no means helpless.