The US Agency for International Development (USAID), the lead agency within the Federal Government for responding to disasters overseas, recommends that the most effective way for people to assist with relief efforts in Iraq is by making cash contributions to humanitarian organizations that are conducting relief operations.

It is a common misperception that all types of assistance are needed immediately following a disaster.  This often leads to spontaneous collections of unsolicited commodities and offers of volunteer services, which can impede relief efforts.  As such, USAID encourages those who wish to help to make a cash donation to the humanitarian organization of their choice.  Cash  donations allow disaster relief professionals to procure the exact commodities needed, and reduce the burden on resources that tend to be scarce in disaster settings (such as transportation routes, staff time, warehouse space, etc.).  Cash also can be transferred very quickly without transportation costs (which often outweigh the value of the donated commodities), and cash donations ensure culturally, dietary, and environmentally appropriate assistance.

For more information on making donations:
USAID:    www.usaid/gov/Iraq
Center for International Disaster Information:  http://www.cidi.org/  (or 703-276-1914)
InterAction:    http://www.interaction.org/  (Guide to Appropriate Giving)