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[quote=Anonymous]OP - Ignore the mean comments.  It is normal to find the actual reality of poverty and deprivation much more confronting than reading about it in a newspaper. The sheer scale can seem overwhelming.  It is hard to be the dispassionate observer. It can take experience and a certain mindset to inure yourself to actual deprivation.

Some commenters have made good suggestions about not assuming a lack of material wealth equals poverty.  Poverty is a measure of material wealth.  I have seen happier faces in ostensibly poor countries than I have in the streets of Bethesda.

That said, there are some things you can do that might help. One thing is to try to stay focused on the big picture. Rather than salve your conscience by handing out goodies or feeding hungry dogs, sign up for monthly donations to a reputable NGO that is seeking to address these problems in a systemic way.

If you are there to enjoy their art and architecture, then show your appreciation through generosity to people around you.  Tip well, don't over-bargain.  Every extra dollar will get circulated through the community.

Maybe do some research beforehand to identify a worthwhile project you can visit and then make a substantial donation.

Be creative. If you can afford to travel to visit these countries, take over 10 or 20 fifty dollar bills and give them to people.  You could have a big impact on their lives. Something along those lines. [/quote]

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