Do JW's only help JW's in a disaster zone?

by not bitter 2 Replies latest jw friends

• 

  not bitter

  I've heard lots of stories over the years of the wonderful job the JW's do in assisting those in need in disaster zones whether they be earthquakes or floods. It would always be reported that the witnesses were the most organised in setting up camps etc and would out do the Red Cross and other such organisitions. But also that they would quickly set up mini congregations to keep the disaster struck brothers spiritually fed.

  Has anyone here been involved in disaster relief work with the witnesses to clarify:

  1) do they only give assistance to existing witnesses and potential bible studies, or to everyone?

  2) can they really be more efficient and organised/successful as the Red Cross/Oxfam?

  I think I know the answer to question 2.
• 

  Tater-T

  good question... I heard they shut their doors in NY during 9/11...

  They'll make sure everyone has a Watchtower.. but thats about it.. as far as I've seen
• 

  Alfred

  If there is little or no potential for media coverage in a particular area, any organized aid from the WT will go exclusively to JW families... where there's potential for a significant "photo op", you might see some of this aid going to non-JWs so they can use it in their assembly boasting sessions....

  That being said, most JWs are compasionate people anyway (just like members of any other religion) so they will tend to help their good neighbors whenever they can. But there's always the pressure to help fellow JWs first...

  However, saying that JWs are the most "organized" in providing aid and that they even "out-do" the Red Cross is a bit of a stretch. Who would say this other than the WT or the GB themselves?