Earlier quoted context omitted.
> You just need to find a destination for your donation. The effective altruism counterpoint is that the same £400 is just about the amount necessary to save a life from malaria or schistosomiasis. Usually a child. The last number I saw was that ~$800 to one of GiveWell's top charities can be expected to save a life. The "how to make global donations" problem is hard, but it's important, and we're fortunate that grea…
The choices between putting a roof over a family in The Philippines and saving a child from malaria in Myanmar is an impossible one. Information can't solve it. I have nothing against Give Well's approach. I think it is important. I'm just making the point that at a personal choice level, the "problem" is a lot more solvable. You only need to know about one charity, really.
One thought experiment to consider: suppose the homeless family themselves had to choose between a free wooden house or lifesaving medical care for their child. What would most families choose? What would you choose in their place? Is there a right answer?