On Friday, August 25, Hurricane Harvey hit the southeastern coast of Texas. Torrential rainfall has continued since, causing catastrophic flooding in the Greater Houston Area. While there lies a long road to recovery in the community, there are some ways you can help the victims of Hurricane Harvey now.

1. Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund

Established by the Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner, and housed by the Greater Houston Community Fund, the money raised goes directly to helping victims in the area.

2. Houston Food Bank

With thousands without homes, food banks in the area are experiencing mass demand with a limited supply.

3. Humane Society of America

Many pet owners were unable to bring their animals when evacuating or they aren't allowed to bring them into shelters. The Humane Society has sent their Animal Rescue Team to help abandoned animals move animals from damaged shelters to safer areas.

4. The American Red Cross

The oldest and most-well known organization for disaster relief donations.

5. The Salvation Army

With a separate relief fund created, the donations will be going to not only the care of victims but also the care of first responders.

6. United Way of Greater Houston

This organization has launched a specific relief fund to for basic needs and recovery due to the amount of money needed far exceeding their regular funds. Donators also have the option of specifying which county their money will be put to use in.

7. GlobalGiving

A global crowdfund that is hoping to raise $2 million dollars for Harvey victims. The money will be allocated to immediate needs: food, water, and shelter. It will then transition remaining funds to recovery efforts.

8. Team Rubicon

An organization that deploys first responders to emergency sites, they are currently taking donations to fund their efforts in the affected areas.

9. Texas Diaper Bank

Diapers are often not provided by disaster relief agencies, donations to this charity go to diapers and other infant supplies that are overlooked.

Making a monetary donation is the most effective way to help the community at the moment. However, stay aware of many charitable scams may be floating around on the internet; search the organization on the IRS website if you are questioning its credibility.