Mineola, NY – The tragic tsunami that recently devastated Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Burma and several other Asian nations could be the costliest disaster in history. Millions of survivors face life without their family, their homes and their villages- all of which were flooded or washed away. Surviving victims still face a perilous future because of polluted drinking water, a lack of sanitation and no health services.

A disaster of this magnitude moves thousands to give generous donations to help in the relief process, but Legislator Joseph Scannell (D-Baldwin) warns people to give only to approved relief organizations. When giving to a national organization like the American Red Cross, the donor should state their intent of the donation. If you are donating with a check, write the intent of the donation on the check, or if by phone, tell the operator, Scannell explained.

“I encourage residents who want to help to give cash donations,” Scanell said. “Giving money, as opposed to food or other supplies, allows these groups to buy supplies near the affected area, which reduces shipping costs and stimulates the local economy.”

The following is a list of humanitarian aid organizations accepting donations to help the surviving victims of the earthquake and tsunamis that tore across the Southeast Asia:

Be wary if the organization will not provide information about its program and finances upon request and ask what portion of your gift actually goes to support the charity's program and what proportion goes to administrative costs.