[Spok]

Isn’t it odd that this story has to get reported in the UK? Wouldn’t you think the US media would consider it to be news?

[grania]

It's standard procedure for charities to dole out the money to the victims' causes that generated it and reallocate it to other "needs". Sometimes (but not always) an honest broker of those funds will take nothing for themselves or any cause, and all the money goes to the victims. Anything that goes through United Way or Red Cross (among others) suffers that fate.

If there's a situation where someone is in need because of a tragedy that befell them, the best thing to do is directly make out a check or give cash to that person.

Another thing to watch is "bundling". Almost all groups that collect clothes and other items for the needy sell them for a small amount of money per bag. The goods go to a second hand shop or somewhere else where they are sold. You'd probably be helping the needy more if you left the used items off anonymously at a bus stop. (or some other way to get them directly to those in need)

Even charity has become an elitist scam.