I wish I could take credit for that idea. It’s actually one of the few things I can remember from a Disaster Management course I took in 2000, but never finished.
There was an entire chapter devoted to that one point. That whenever possible, buy supplies from the locals instead of importing. That way you aren’t just helping people in the moment, you’re also helping rebuild their economy.
It’s disturbing how many relief organizations don’t follow that.
I recall some President of some country in Africa when asked by Americans “How can we help?”
“You can help us by not sending over all of your Goodwill clothing. Our people have no incentive to buy or make clothes. Stop sending us yours! Then our workers can make clothing and earn money to buy the clothing and other things!”