Solicitations for donations come in many forms. Telephone solicitations, mail appeals and increasingly email appeals are common. Low cost Internet solicitations can be very effective for charities, but disingenuous operators also have access to the Internet as a resource. Potential contributors should be aware that websites and Internet solicitations do not ensure an organization's legitimacy. If approached by a small or local organization, inquire as to how the funds it collects will be provided to those in need.
Most relief organizations prefer monetary donations.
If asked to supply goods, ask the organization how the donated items will be transported and distributed to those in need. Don't let anyone pressure you into making donations on the spot. Take time to investigate the organization. Check out the charity. Make sure that you are comfortable with its mission and activities, and that its philosophy matches your own.