So now that you've found 50 ways to give, lets talk about where to give money. When money is tight and you can't give to all the charities you'd like, how do you chose? I think it is important to think in terms of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
First thing is first. We must have our physical needs met. This means give to programs that provide food to the starving, clean water, shelter to sleep, etc.
Followed closely behind this we must have our safety and health needs met. This means health care, jobs, etc.
I'd like to add spiritual needs. Place it where you may but I believe it is supremely important, like breathing.
The next question is, do you decide who is in need of food MORE? Is it less important to give to the food bank in the United States than in a third world country like Haiti? Wow, this is difficult. Do you think of your donations in these terms? You do have to ration. How do you decide? And what about the neighbor's soccer team needing money for uniforms and the Girl Scouts selling cookies? Are those worth our money?
