In the past days, Americans have watched as Hurricane Matthew careened toward the southeast coast. As the hurricane hit, Florida especially was overwhelmed, and, as of Friday night, states as far north as South Carolina were already experiencing torrential downpour along the coast. The tropical storm has caused immense damage, and it will only continue to wreak havoc on American communities and families. That's not to mention those in Haiti who've been hit the hardest by the storm.

So here's the question; what can we do to help these families recover?

We Midwesterners (and everyone else safely tucked away from the storm) can be proactive. After Katrina, Ivan, and so many other tremendous hurricanes, we know what the Red Cross, Salvation Army and other aid organizations always ask for, but here's a list of reminders:

1. Canned and Dry Foods

- Easily shipped, non-perishable, and pretty universally used to help the victims of storms feed their displaced families, canned foods are so easy to donate. Don't know of a food drive in your area? Start one up and contact the Salvation Army, here, to organize a collection!

2. Financial Support

- Too busy to start and operate a food drive? Feel free to make a donation directly to the Red Cross via this link. Be sure to spread the word about this option, too! Every little bit counts!

3. Donate Blood

- Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of the disaster relief effort, blood drives are imperative in the physical recovery of those injured in the destruction of hurricanes and other natural disasters. This link will help you find an already active blood drive in your area.

Feeling like you'd rather make a bigger commitment? Check out how to host your own blood drive here.

4. Volunteer with a Charitable Organization

- The biggest commitment you can make is taking out a chunk of your upcoming several months to provide aid firsthand. The Red Cross, Salvation Army, and many church groups often organize groups of volunteers for hands-on support closer to the tail-end of these disasters, so keep an eye out! Just a reminder - these volunteers will be needed for the American southeast, as well as for the Haitian victims.

It's our responsibility as those safely tucked away to prepare to aid our brothers and sisters as they prepare to fight nature for their lives and homes.