The worst moments often bring out the best in people. Disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes often ignite an outpouring of generosity from individuals and communities who are moved to assist those whose lives have been affected. The images of devastation prompt many to respond by donating goods for the victims. Donations of goods and services, also known as in-kind donations, can be valuable resources on a relief effort. However, misguided in-kind donations can also have the effect of hampering the relief effort if inappropriate or excessive contributions arriving at the disaster site impede the distribution of priority items. To prevent such a situation, the American Red Cross is very careful about the types of in-kind donations it accepts. The information provided here is intended to provide you with some background on how in-kind donations fit into Red Cross disaster relief activities, and information about the most effective ways to help when disaster strikes. An important first step when thinking about donating goods to any relief agency is to determine what their policies are on in-kind donations, and ascertain whether they have a need, or the means, to accept your donation.