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Father Tom’s Mailbag,
Oblates Magazine
9480 North De Mazenod Drive
Belleville IL 62223.
Or e-mail to mailbag@oblatesusa.org

Q: ?I have read a lot about the charity efforts in Sri Lanka, but how do I know that my donations are going directly to those who need the help?

A: This is a frequent question for charitable groups and foundations. It seems to me that two basic factors are involved: transparency and trust.

First, the charitable organization must be transparent, that is, open and honest in accounting for how donations are spent. Donors should try to know enough about the people and organization they’re helping that they trust them to use their donations according to “the intention of the donor.”

The donations we collected for the tsunami rehabilitation have indeed gone to the creation of several vital ministries, including the construction of a new orphanage. I’m including a photo from my recent trip to show you some of the good you’re doing there.

Fortunately, we Oblates have a fairly simple and direct way of sending money to our missions. We do it through our General Administration in Rome and thus avoid the risk and complexities associated with some governmental agencies.

Moreover, our Oblate Rule has an eloquent reminder that the money we have is “the patrimony of the poor.” I love that phrase!
Also, please watch for upcoming issues of Oblates magazine, where I’ll be sharing more of the amazing things I saw in Sri Lanka.