"Charity fatigue" may be setting in for some in wake of disasters

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- With humanitarian efforts going on in the wake of tornadoes in Illinois and a typhoon in eastern Asia, there might be some "charity fatigue" setting in for people who would typically donate.

Just hours after tornadoes twisted their way through the Midwest, Patty Flowers of the American Red Cross began looking for help.

"We are spread thin. There's a lot of things that are happening right now. People want to give and that's the good news and they're giving," said Flowers.

With so many natural disasters taking place in such a short time, Flowers is noticing a change in how donations are being made.

"What I think I've seen more of is that people are giving a little less. They're kind of holding back because they're thinking well there's going to be something else I might want to give to," said Flowers.

However, fatigue doesn't seem to have affected those volunteering to help. That's the word from Mary Ann Lee, the disaster relief coordinator at Elmbrook Church.

"If it's a place you're supposed to be, you just have the energy to do it and do it," said Lee.

Lee had been hoping to help in the Philippines. But Sunday's severe weather in the Midwest changed that.

"It's directed our focus a little bit closer to home even though we still pray and are concerned," said Lee.

Donations are always accepted by the American Red Cross. CLICK HERE to make a contribution.