One of the most cost effective charities is LDS Philanthropy.  They have zero overhead, with all money going directly to aid.  In my area, Indianapolis, we just had 2000 cases that local members packaged to send to assist people there. The cases of items were provided by LDS Philanthropies, and will be trucked there by our area bishop’s storehouse. If you want to donate, whether LDS or not, here is a great way to do so without worrying about if the money is going there.

http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services/