What do disaster victims need most? Money. Financial contributions are the most useful form of disaster assistance. They help guarantee that relief workers have the funds necessary to provide disaster victims with needed supplies in a timely fashion. Donating money also eliminates many of the logistical concerns such as transportation, distribution and spoilage frequently associated with donations of unsolicited, unsized clothing and perishable mixed food items. Money also helps the local economy recover. Beware of scams claiming they are helping. Respected relief agencies to consider for donations include the Network for Good, Southern Baptist Relief Services, Samaritan’s Purse, the Catholic Relief Services, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, the Mennonite Central Committee, the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army -- as well as other local or national charities that you know and trust.