Good Intentions Get Lost

Comment from a reader on "Is Foriegn Aid Wasted?":

I ask the Author, " Can you name one country where this does not happen to some extent?"

Your observation that "it seems to never be appreciated even though many of your people are constantly seen on television begging for it." is, in my opinion, the result of a number of things.

First, If the aid does not actually make it to the people, why should they show appreciation? Because of "good intentions"? Try feeding your family on good intentions and get back to us. Those who actually receive it DO appreciate it!

Second, as for those you claim to see on TV " Begging for it" many do so because they want their turn at the trough, but not all. Some are honorable people, genuinely concerned for their fellow man.

I agree that a change is needed as to the type of aid and assistance that is rendered. No more "monetary" assistance would be a good start. Cash has a funny way of disappearing. Food, clothing, and medical supplies might offer a more "controllable" method of getting aid to those who need it, but we have seen times when the good stuff, i.e. the goods actually donated, are exchanged for poorer quality local goods, then sold for a profit elsewhere, but they have a better chance of helping than does a bank transfer.