In times of crisis or when someone is in need, our first instinct is to help. This is true throughout the Golden Triangle and particularly true in Columbus. It’s one of the things that makes its slogan “The Friendly City” more than just words.

In our surrounding towns and cities, there may be one or two organizations that are known for attending to the needs of people during a crisis. In Columbus, there are nonprofits specializing in a wide variety of needs. The Columbus-Lowndes Chamber lists contact information for 46 nonprofits in the city or county.

If a need emerges, you can rest assured that there is at least one nonprofit that has expertise based on years of experience. These well-established groups have most of the legwork taken care of – logistics, suppliers, distribution, community partnerships. In times of need, they can move quickly and efficiently, maximizing the donations that come their way.

During the federal government shutdown, federal workers are going without pay while millions nationwide have seen the SNAP benefits they rely on to feed their families suspended.

Upon learning of a crisis, many people spring immediately into action by going on a shopping run to their grocery store to purchase nonperishable items. New groups organize to collect food and donations for those in need but may not be equipped to deal with all of the behind-the-scenes factors that come with it.

We do not discourage anyone from helping in any way they see fit.

But we do encourage looking to established charities for guidance on ways to best help. Sometimes, that may be canned goods, but other times cash may be more helpful and efficient.

Through their suppliers and partners, these nonprofits can buy these provisions in bulk at a much lower price than a private citizen. The other benefit of donations is that it allows the nonprofit to use those funds where they are most needed. Through their experience, they see needs we might not immediately think of. Food may be a priority, but it doesn’t meet all needs, especially for those workers who aren’t getting paycheck. Personal hygiene products are always needed and often in short supply. Through their experience working with people in need, our established nonprofits understand those needs and how to meet them.

National organizations such as The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army are pros at responding to crises. Local organizations such as Helping Hands in Columbus and Starkville Strong have built excellent reputations, as have many other nonprofits who serve our communities. And if you’re not sure where to turn to help, the United Way of the Golden Triangle, which supports 18 community partners, will make sure the help you offer gets to the people who need it.

The current crisis is unique in one respect: We don’t know when it will end. Given that, it’s probably a good idea to think of what you can do as a continuing effort.

We are people who respond to the needs of others and we are blessed to have nonprofits who are experts in meeting those needs. When we channel our charity through these groups, there is peace of mind in knowing what we give will be used to maximum effect.

The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.

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