American Nonprofits Raise Over $110 Million for Disasters in Asia — But Many Face Hardships to Deliver Aid

The Chronicle of Philanthropy reports that American nonprofit groups have thus far raised more than $110 million for victims of the natural disasters that hit Myanmar and China in May.  Yet, these charities are facing great hardship as they attempt to deliver aid to those people who need it most.  In Myanmar, for example, many Americans have never received visas to enter the country, and are thus working through local charities.  According to The Chronicle:   

Many groups have been forced to scale back their efforts because of problems entering the country and moving around once they are inside. Workers face harassment by government officials and some parts of the country remain accessible only by boat.

An additional constraint facing aid workers is the U.S. government sanctions against Myanmar. While the Treasury Department eased the sanctions following the cyclone, they are scheduled to be restored in January.

Meanwhile, The Chronicle reports that recovery efforts in China have been encouraging.  Several reasons exist for this: (1) American corporations with business interests in China have played a significant role in the rebuilding effort; (2) local volunteers continue to offer assistance in large numbers; and (3) the Chinese government has been deeply involved in the recovery effort.

VEJ