Nothing puts things in perspective quite like a natural disaster. You've think you've got it bad? Check out the conditions in Haiti.

We're all feeling a bit horrified and helpless as the extent of the devastation becomes evident, but there are ways in which we can help. Here are but a few:

• The American Red Cross sees “immediate needs for food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support” in Haiti. Donations can be made here or by calling (800) RedCross.
• UNICEF: “Despite heavy damages to its own offices in Port-au-Prince, UNICEF is ready to provide immediate support to the victims of the unfolding humanitarian crisis.” That's a statement from UNICEF's Web site. Get details and donate here or call (800) For Kids or (800) 367-5437.
• Mercy Corps is accepting donations here or by phone at (888) 256-1900.
• Musician Wyclef Jean, who was born in Haiti, is accepting donations through his Yele Haiti Foundation. He also said people can donate by texting “Yele” to 501501. Doing so will send $5 to the Yele Haiti Earthquake Fund. (The charge will appear on your cell phone bill.)
• “Think globally, give locally,” tweets Tom Rowe from Visit Baltimore, who alerted his followers of three Baltimore organizations that are collecting money for earthquake relief — World Relief, Catholic Relief Services and Lutheran World Relief.

And that's just for starters. CBS News offers a terrific list of charitable organizations that are offering help to the people of Haiti.

If you know of other ways in which readers can help, let us know by leaving a comment below.

UPDATE: Barry MacQuarrie, CPA, of KAF Financial Group offers an addition to the list of groups working on behalf of Haiti. It's Samaritan's Purse International Relief. Thanks, Barry.

Also, there have been a couple of reports in the media about how to avoid online scams that target our inner humanitarians. Read more about how to avoid being duped on MSNBC.com and in the Baltimore Business Journal.