In Reply to: question please posted by kazza007k on Sunday, 16. January 2011 at 11:10 Bali Time:
There are many, many great charities and orphanages in Bali where clothing, pens, school items are so gratefully received by the Carers and children. This can be assessed by researching or simply going on your "gut feeling' and other recommendations as to how happy you are in your choice. Any donations to the the Balinese are so happily welcomed as you may have found out and Australians should be encouraged to travel over there with full suitcases to give away whether they are for orphanages, families, or hotel staff.
The subject of "transparency" or dishonesty in the actions of some places often spoils the image of those that are reputable and need help. It is a big subject so I will keep this short. An example is;
$2000 was donated to purchase computers for a small orphanage, and to provide a computer teacher from the local school once a week. It has now been proven that money went into the pocket of the Carer and to buy his child a Laptop for University;
some people donate and think that their money has paid for a new kitchen, but so do five other people think that they paid for the kitchen:
two orphanages are using children over ten years of age as labourers on construction sites...one child fell to his death recently, and the authorities were told he was chasing butterflies!
Cartons of toiletries, and medicines often go out "the back door" for sale and the children miss out.
An article in the Bali Advertiser dated 29/12/10 lists many other proven happenings. The Jakarta Post is also featuring an article soon.
All I intended to say was that like many industries in the world there can always be the need to take care with what, where, and how you donate
Please continue taking school items, linen, clothing, and buying treats of fresh fruit and juices. Any items for physical and mental activities are also essential. This is the least we can do for the Balinese.