義援金 vs 支援金

This is probably appropriate topic given the recent Kumamoto earthquake is requiring either or both. The good news is, despite the apparent difficult kanji, the difference is quite straightforward.

義援金 is money that is donated directly to the people in need. The victims receive cash.

支援金 is money donated to charitable organisations to support their efforts in assisting the people in need. The victims receive everything that is not cash.

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