What is the best way to make charitable donations overseas? Do you think giving to organizations like the International Red Cross, Oxfam, UNICEF, etc, is the best way?

Most of the larger organizations spend way too much on their own salaries and administration. The other problem with the large agencies, especially those with the UN, is corruption. Even if they manage to eliminate corruption within the organization, they still have to deal with local corruption, such as warlords who take 90% of the booty in exchange for allowing 10% of it to go to those who really need it.

As one person told me, they just decided it was better to get 10% through than nothing, even though the other 90% was essentially financing violent gangs.

I try to find small, locally based groups that are very familiar with the area. I can be sure that they know how to use the money effectively. Of course, even then, there is a good chance that I am being conned, as there is far less oversight. I donate to a priest who helps street kids in the Philippines, and am fairly confident the money is being used wisely.

I donate to a priest who helps street kids in the Philippines, and am fairly confident the money is being used wisely..

No...no...nothing would go awry there.

UNICEF? Bwahahahaha!They had a promotion a few years ago (maybe they still have it) whereby you sponsored a child for $35 per month. The kid you sponsored only got $3 per month.

Salvation Army (red kettle ringers) is probably your safest donation bet.