Charitable Giving in Times of Natural Disasters

by Sheila Kinman, CAP – Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at Community Foundation Tampa Bay

As a long-time resident of the Tampa Bay area, I have learned a few facts about our community: we are proud of our region, and we are generous to one another. This has been demonstrated a multitude of times since hurricanes Helene and Milton impacted our beautiful Tampa Bay community. When natural disasters strike, charitable giving can be a powerful way to provide support. However, effective philanthropy during a crisis can be unique compared to your annual giving. To ensure your post-disaster giving strategy is impactful, keep these tips in mind:

After a natural disaster, there are two distinct phases

Giving after a natural disaster is different for many reasons, including that there are often two key phases, following a crisis. Each phase has a specific focus. Unlike ongoing charitable efforts, disaster relief functions within a narrow window that requires donations to be deployed quickly for immediate support, while planning for ongoing needs that have resulted due to the crisis.

1. Relief Phase: This phase begins immediately after the hurricane. It focuses on meeting urgent, basic needs like search and rescue, emergency shelter, food, water, and medical care. The goal is to stabilize the situation, prevent loss of life, and minimize further damage. Relief efforts are often short-term, and involve emergency responders, aid organizations, and governmental agencies.

2. Recovery Phase: This phase follows once immediate needs have been addressed. It aims at rebuilding and restoring communities, which can take months or even years. Recovery involves repairing infrastructure, housing, and services and often includes economic support to help communities get back on their feet. Recovery can also involve long-term planning to reduce future risks, such as building more resilient structures or improving disaster response systems. Essentially, relief is about urgent needs, while recovery is about long-term rebuilding and resilience.

While disaster-related philanthropy is often deeply personal and driven by the desire to respond quickly to a hurting community, there are several considerations industry experts recommend, to help make these gifts strategic and truly impactful.

Six Best Practices for Disaster-Related Giving

1. Assess the Greatest Needs and Gaps in Services

Before donating, consider what phase of relief the community is in. The immediate need may be for life-saving aid, while months later, housing and infrastructure may be the priority.

2. Research the Organizations You Support

Not all organizations operate equally during disasters. Some might lack the experience, capacity, or resources to mobilize effectively. Look for established organizations with a proven track record in disaster relief. They often have established networks and partnerships that allow them to mobilize quickly and effectively.

3. Focus on Equity and Inclusivity

Natural disasters often impact vulnerable populations the hardest, including low-income communities, people with disabilities, and those with limited access to resources. Supporting organizations that are specifically committed to equity ensures that aid reaches the most marginalized populations.

4. Opt for Financial Donations Over Physical Goods

While it’s tempting to donate clothing, blankets, or other goods, these items may be difficult to transport and distribute. In many cases, they can end up in storage or, worse, take up valuable space needed for immediate resources. Cash donations allow organizations to purchase exactly what’s needed, often locally, which can stimulate the affected economy and provide relief faster.

5. Consider Contributing to Local Organizations

National organizations often have the visibility and infrastructure to reach many people. However, local nonprofits typically have a better understanding of the community’s unique needs and can be instrumental in long-term recovery.

6. Keep in Mind that Long-Term Support is Critical

After the initial news cycle fades, the need for support continues as communities rebuild. Consider setting up recurring donations or making a long-term financial commitment to help fund the reconstruction and rehabilitation phase, which can last for years after the disaster.

Take Action

Giving during a natural disaster is one of the most immediate and impactful ways to support communities in crisis. With a thoughtful and strategic approach, your donation can go beyond meeting urgent needs and contribute to long-term recovery and resilience. By choosing reputable organizations, focusing on areas of greatest need, and considering long-term support, you can make a meaningful difference when disaster strikes. Remember, every donation counts, but with a plan, your generosity can have a lasting impact.

Another resource that can be invaluable following a disaster is leveraging philanthropic expertise from a community foundation like Community Foundation Tampa Bay. Giving through a fund at a community foundation allows you to commit relief funds upfront while also benefiting from the time, resources, and expert guidance needed to make strategic, impactful decisions. This approach enables an immediate response while ensuring that resources are thoughtfully directed to areas where they can make the greatest difference over the long term.

Contact Us To Learn More

If you would like to learn more about how you can help with hurricane relief and recovery efforts, contact me at kinman@cftampabay.org or review our list of critical needs from local nonprofits on our Critical Needs List.

Sheila Kinman serves as the Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at the Community Foundation Tampa Bay. A seasoned expert in providing philanthropic solutions, she is dedicated to facilitating the joy of giving for donors. Sheila specializes in helping individuals, private foundations, nonprofits, and corporations direct their charitable giving in impactful and financially strategic ways. Her expertise also includes facilitating complex, non-cash gifts, such as donations of closely-held business interests and real estate.

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