HOW TO HELP: GUIDE TO HUMANITARIAN GIVING FOR THE HAITI EARTHQUAKE

The phase of search-and-rescue and surgical care for victims of Haiti's catastrophic earthquake has passed, and initial supplies of food, water and other essentials have reached most people in need. But the imposing scale and duration of the necessary humanitarian operation has become clear. It will be months, and for many people over a year, before normal services, housing, and livelihoods are restored. Until then, the humanitarian operation (Government, aid agencies and other actors) must continually provide food for 2 million people, drinking water for 1.2 million, health care and other basic needs for a similar number, plus emergency shelter strong enough to withstand the hurricane season for some 1.2 million homeless people, and early recovery to revive livelihoods. The world's response to the Haiti Flash Appeal was historic: within a month, the appeal's initial estimated requirements of US$575 million were met with contributions or commitments. Now, similar generosity is needed to ensure that affected Haitians' needs are met for a prolonged period of relief and early recovery, while Haiti builds back better.

Donations can be in the form of cash contributions or in-kind donations of goods or services. The United Nations is urging cash contributions, which are the most flexible.

Guidance for cash contributions is given next, and guidance for in-kind donations starts on page 3