Thank you so much for starting this thread. I think that both quilts and cash are good donations. Just a simple quilt to the Linus Connection would bring some joy and security to a child that has gone through so much. The cash, on the other hand, is extremely practical and costs nothing to send in the way of shipping costs. I plan to do both.
As for the Red Cross and Salvation Army. I think that they both have their specific jobs and duties and one may be stronger in some areas of the country than others. I was in a serious, tropical storm in HI once and it was the Red Cross that came through for us. I've also heard wonderful things about the SA. IMHO, Both are great organizations that deserve your donations.
~ C