Help Katrina and our neighbors

Nonprofit circles worry about “compassion fatigue,” in which Americans tire of giving money to worthy causes. Thankfully, there hasn’t been much evidence of that lately. Americans gave more money in the first week after Katrina (an estimated $830.6 million) than they gave in the first two weeks following Sept. 11 and the Asian tsunami combined. And as of last week, the Katrina total had topped $923 million. But there is legitimate concern that this national giving might hurt support for local needs. That’s why it’s important that area residents also contribute to the United Way of the Plains and other charities. Katrina victims need help, but so do our neighbors.
Posted by Phillip Brownlee

4 Comments

  1. JUSTA GUY
    Posted September 21, 2005 at 6:41 am | Permalink

    I suffer more from Kansas Tax fatigue. At least with charitable donations, I have some idea what the money is used for.

  2. Joe Williams
    Posted September 21, 2005 at 7:11 am | Permalink

    I agree!

  3. NoJoCo
    Posted September 21, 2005 at 10:06 am | Permalink

    Unfortunately, charities have to promote their causes. They need to be at the forefront of people’s minds through advertisements and marketing like any other entity that needs cash flow.

    Groups such as The United Way need to get their message out even though the tragedy of Katrina is happening. I’m sure the people at the United Way feel somewhat guilty because they are asking for money at this time, but they both compete for resources. It causes people to dig deeper, but that is difficult when we are trying to make ends meet.

  4. dan newland
    Posted September 22, 2005 at 10:28 am | Permalink

    Dear Barbara Bush: Although we do not normally provide shelter for white, rich, racists bigots, please be advised that we would be willing to open up our spare bedroom if you lose your home in Houston.