By Amy Nordrum -
The 7.8-magnitude earthquake that rocked Nepal Saturday caused untold damage to Kathmandu, the capital, and its citizens. Hundreds of thousands are sleeping outside or in makeshift shelters to avoid the ongoing threat of nearly 60 aftershocks, UNICEF said, and supplies of fuel water, food and electricity are running low. Hospitals suffered damage in the quake and are now flooded with patients these facilities are poorly equipped to treat.
Several international aid organizations have mobilized in the region, and are accepting donations to handle sorely needed relief efforts:
TWTRIn addition, a group called Charity Navigator which reviews and ranks charities that operate around the world says several charities listed on the site plan to provide relief to Nepal. Those with a three or four-star rating by the organization include:
Charity Navigator offers tips for giving to relief efforts in a times of crisis, and recommends donating only to established charities and designating the contribution should go toward the Nepalese earthquake if you want to ensure every dollar is spent on immediate aid. The organization says to be wary of donating over the phone, by text, on social media or through email since scammers often target victims through these methods during crises.