As I recall, right after the tsunami disaster, Pres. Bush was being criticized by the U.N. for being "stingy" when we pledged the initial $15 million in aid. It didn't take long for his critics at home to join in on the criticism. He came out shortly thereafter, and upped the amount to $35 million. And he said there would be more aid pleged once we are able to evaluate exactly what was needed, not focusing only on the present, but what would be needed in the future. Of course, since then, it has been increased tenfold to $350 million.

Interestingly (to all you detractors out there) this is being reported by the Financial Times:

....diplomats say the challenge over the next few months will be to coordinate the delivery of aid rather than to raise more money.

Louis Michel, the EU’s development Commissioner, who is touring the affected area, said there was too much emphasis on money and not enough on longer term projects.

(emphasis mine - ed.)