How To Participate In Humanitarian Relief Somalia Efforts

By Stephanie Fox


Somalia has witnessed one of the longest wars in history running into decades. This is made worse by the fact that the country lies on a semi-arid belt. This makes it impossible for the population to make a living from its soil. People have had to rely on humanitarian relief Somalia efforts by volunteers and well-wishers. While many would love to assist, the opportunities seem to be elusive. How can one participate in alleviating the suffering of the millions of people affected?

Donations can be sent directly to organizations working with Somalis on the ground. These donations come in the form of food stuff, clothing, shoes and other supplies that can be used directly. Because of the dire situation, old clothes and shoes can be donated as long as they are in wearable state. There are drop-off points that can be used for this purpose run by different organizations. .

Cash donations are also welcome. The donations can be made online or using credit cards. You can also make bank transfers to accounts provided by the organizations providing this support. There are numerous fund raising opportunities on social media and internet space that you can participate in. Such efforts allow the organizers to identify the items that are most needed and also fund logistical issues.

A new way of making donations involves buying an extra item for a person in Somalia. For instance, if you buy soap for your house, you pay for an extra piece to be sent to Somalis. This allows you to donate clothing, food stuff, sanitary pads and other supplies that you use at home. The organization may take the items in kind or convert them into cash for use in the neediest situations.

There are activities hosted by charity organizations aimed at raising funds. The events include marathons, art exhibitions and galleries, dinners, walks, marathons and concerts, among others. These events are open to individuals and corporate organizations. By purchasing merchandise for these events, including caps and t-shirts, you will be supporting their activities.

Visiting Somalia as a volunteer is also an option. There are numerous volunteers as doctors, support staff and logistic officers assisting Somalis on the ground. You need to organize with the relief agencies for security reason and to be facilitated adequately for your trip and stay. This gives you an opportunity to experience life on the ground and therefore feel attached directly to the humanitarian efforts taking place.

Offer logistical support to organizations helping people in Somalia. They require people to mobilize for events, perform administrative work, help in collecting donations and packaging, among other skills. When you volunteer for a few hours, it will save the organizations money that can be put into buying supplies. Corporate organizations participate by acting as collection points, sponsoring volunteers, publicizing events and other ways that an organization chooses.

Verify the authenticity of any campaign you wish to participate in. Check whether they have foot on the ground and whether your donations are going into the intended activities. It is disheartening to give to the needy only for the donations to end up in private hands. Even the minutest contribution will be appreciated. Media reports and licenses will help you identify genuine organizations and events.




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