Humanitarian Activities

Earthquake and Tsunamis in South East Asia: Disaster Response Resources

To assist its foundation and corporate members interested in responding to the disaster situation in South East Asia caused by the earthquake and the series of tsunamis last Sunday, 27th December 2004 , the European Foundation Centre has compiled a list of relief organisations and resources. Disaster Grantmaking: A Practical Guide for Foundations and Corporate Donors, a publication of the EFC and the Council on Foundations, offers guidance on the most appropriate ways to help those affected and addressed long-term needs and vulnerabilities.

•  Disaster Grantmaking: A Practical Guide for Foundations and Corporate Donors: A joint product of the European Foundation Centre and the Council on Foundations, this document suggests eight principles (listed below) plus practical tips for grantmakers to consider when responding to emergency situations. It also includes examples of good and bad practices, facts and figures, and a list of useful web sites. Download the Guide (pdf 334kb)

•  ReliefWeb, a project of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), provides current information on the needs and situation in the region.

•  WINGS (Worldwide Initiative for Grantmaker Support)  is a global network of more than 100 membership associations and support organisations serving grantmakers. WINGS participants in the Asia/Pacific region may be able to assist you in identifying local partners in the disaster-hit areas. 

•  European Commission Humanitarian Office provides information on the European Commission's response to the crisis, as well as a list of partners and implementing agencies.

•  International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched an appeal to assist those affected by the earthquake and tsunamis in Asia.

Principles of Good Practice in Disaster Response:

1. First, do no harm.
2. Stop, look and listen before taking action.
3. Don't act in isolation.
4. Think beyond the immediate crisis to the long-term.
5. Bear in mind the expertise of local organizations.
6. Find out how prospective grantees operate.
7. Be accountable to those you are trying to help.
8. Communicate your work widely and use it as an educational tool.

Tips for Good Practice in Disaster Response

1. Developing an internal plan for handling disaster requests.
2. Learning about the disaster situation before responding.
3. Thinking about when to make a disaster grant.
4. Deciding whether to provide cash assistance, or goods and services.
5. Looking at the disaster management picture.
6. Choosing a grantee.
7. Coordinating your disaster grants with others.
8. Monitoring and evaluating disaster grants.
9. Enhancing understanding of disasters.

Download "Disaster Grantmaking: A Practical Guide for Foundations and Corporate Donors" (pdf 334kb)