Over the past week wildfires have engulfed the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Over 100,000 people have been displaced out of their homes. The fires have left homes in as smoldering piles in its wake. People displaced by the fires have lost everything.
In times like this communities rush to rally around those who have been affected by tragedy to help. One of the first things people will do is donate clothing and household items. While people who are displaced need clothing and household items. The influx and urge to be of assistance creates a secondary problem at relief sites. Relief sites don't have the space or the man-power to be able to process and store the physical items.
When a large disaster like this happens the needs of the people affected are complex and long term. In order to be able to be the most helpful in times like these the best thing you can do is ask What kind of help you need?
When you ask What type of help do you need, you are putting the needs of the other person a head of your need to help. It is important when you seek out to help others that you don't leave a secondary problem in your wake of helpfulness.
If you're offering help ask what type of help do you need. If you're ever in the position of needing help don't hesitate to be specific with what type of help you need.
A Scout is helpful.