Imperial Valley Christian Center

Here's a great list, from the Christian relief agency World Vision, of the Top Ten Myths of Disaster Relief  (Hat tip to World Magazines Blog.)

So often we as Christians are more often interested in doing what makes us feel good instead of actually doing what will bless people. My Dad, who helps Americans doing business in Mexico, told a story once about some indians in the Mexicali Valley who quietly complained to him about the mountains of used closed and blankets that American missionary groups would bring on their annual missionary pilgrimages. They didn't want to seem ungrateful but what would really help them was money to buy the things they needed.  But that would actually involve spending money instead of giving away old clothes or cheap blankets.

I've always kind of had that feeling about short term mission vacations trips as well. Wouldn't the $2,000 we spend on a one week missions vacation trip to Hondikiva be better spent supporting a long term missionary who is already there or some local Hodikivian ministry. I do know that it's the missionaries who promote these trips, I've had several missionaries invite me over and over again to come visit them. I always ask if it would actually be a help to them or more of a hindrance. I have yet to get a satisfactory answer.

Anyway Here's a few of them: Remember these are the Myths of Disaster Relief not the things  you are supposed to do.

1. Americans can help by collecting blankets, shoes and clothing
The cost of shipping these items – let alone the time it takes to sort, pack and ship them – is prohibitive. Often, those items are manufactured for export to the U.S. from these same countries. It is far more efficient to purchase them locally. Cash is the better solution…
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3. The United States must airlift food and medicines to the disaster site
Food is virtually always available within a day's drive of the disaster site. Purchasing the food locally is more cost-efficient, and it ensures that the food is appropriate to local residents' tastes and religious requirements. Medicines are often available within the country, too. India, for example, has a large pharmaceutical industry. Because medicines are high-value, low-weight commodities, in some cases they can and must be airlifted in to save lives.
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7. Relief needs are so intense that almost anyone can fly to the scene to offer help
Professionals with specialized skills and overseas disaster experience are often deployed to disaster sites. Volunteers without those skills can do more harm than good, and siphon off critical logistics and translations services. Hiring qualified disaster survivors is much more cost efficient and provides much needed employment.
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8. Survivors feel lucky to be alive
Shock, trauma and the mourning for loved ones who died are common among disaster survivors. Often, they wish it was they who died instead of their loved ones. Treating these emotional needs is an essential component of relief efforts.
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Read The Rest.