I'm sure by now you have heard about the devastating hurricane that recently hit southeastern Texas this past weekend. Many cities and communities in Texas right now are under water due to heavy rain and flooding. So far, this natural disaster has claimed the lives of 14 people. These people are in need of urgent help. Many people are still trapped in their homes, and the governor has declared a state of emergency. These citizens are in desperate need of donations. Here are 4 ways you can help, no matter where you are.
1. Donate Money
This might be the most obvious one. The mayor of Houston has put together a Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. You can donate to that here
Here are some more places where you can donate:
The American Red Cross is accepting donations on its website. You can also text HARVEY to 90999 to donate $10.
Donations to the Salvation Army can be made online, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) or texting STORM to 51555.
GoFundMe has created a page with all of its Harvey-related campaigns.
GlobalGiving’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund
YouCaring has a fundraising page set up by J. J. Watt of the Houston Texans with a goal of $1 million.
2. Donate Blood
There are many people who were injured and hurt by this disaster. Blood is something that is also something they are in extreme need of.
AABB, which coordinates a task force to manage blood collection efforts during disasters, put out a call on Sunday for blood donations in the aftermath of Harvey.
Those interested in donating blood may contact the following organizations:
AABB: 301-907-6977
America's Blood Centers
American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
Armed Services Blood Program: 703-681-5979
3. Food
On top of money, food is the next thing that people affected by the hurricane are in need of. Here is a list of food banks likely affected by the hurricane.
Food Bank of the Golden Crescent
Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley
Consider donating money instead of food, as it allows the food bank to donations better.
4. Animals
Don't forget about our furry friends! Many people left their pets behind when they had to evacuate. Austin Pets Alive! says it has transported more than 235 animals to its shelter. The organization seeks donations, as well as people who can adopt animals. The Humane Society of the United States, the ASPCA, Petco Foundation, RedRover and Best Friends Animal Society are all working in Texas and Louisiana's affected areas. The ASPCA could really use cash donations to assist with the costs of rescuing and caring for all of these animals. You can donate here
