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> 2005
> January/February
Top 10 Myths of Disaster Relief
In the wake of the tsunami tragedy, believers must overcome public stereotypes about overseas disasters. Here's what Christian aid workers want you to know.
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7. Relief needs are so intense that almost anyone can fly to the scene to offer help
Professionals with specialized skills and overseas disaster experience are often deployed to disaster sites. Volunteers without those skills can do more harm than good, and siphon off critical logistics and translations services. Hiring qualified disaster survivors is much more cost efficient and provides much needed employment.
8. Survivors feel lucky to be alive
Shock, trauma and the mourning for loved ones who died are common among disaster survivors. Often, they wish it were they who died instead of their loved ones. Treating these emotional needs is an essential component of relief efforts.
9. Insurance and governments can cover losses
The vast majority of the world's population has never heard of an insurance policy. Further, governments of poor countries can barely meet ongoing social service needs, let alone provide a safety net like FEMA. Disaster survivors must bear these costs alone.
10. People are helpless in the face of natural disasters
The United States is proof that tougher building codes, early warning and disaster preparedness can save lives. Even in poor countries, communities are taking steps to mitigate the loss of life in future emergencies.
For more information on World Vision's response, or on ways the public can help, please visit www.worldvision.org, or phone 888-56-CHILD.
Click here to visit Christianity Today International's special section on responding to the tsunami disaster.
Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Today's Christian magazine.
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