Photo courtesy of American Red Cross Facebook page
As catastrophic floods continue to paralyze Houston in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, there are many ways families can contribute to the recovery of the nation’s fourth largest city. While your heart is in the right place if you’re thinking of donating anything other than money, this can cause more problems, according to CBS. ​
With more 30,000 people expected to be housed in temporary shelters, financial help is what’s needed most. To make sure you donate to a reputable organization, Charity Navigator lists highly-rated charities currently responding to Harvey’s aftermath. If you want to do something, there are plenty of ways to help Harvey’s victims.
Text a donation
It’s so simple and can be done in under ten seconds. Text “HARVEY” to the American Red Cross at 90999 to make a $10 donation to those in need.
Donate directly to the Houston Mayor’s relief fund
Mayor Sylvester Turner established the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund for victims through the Greater Houston Community Foundation, which is accepting tax deductible relief donations.
GoFundMe
GoFundMe has a page dedicated to campaigns created to help Harvey’s victims. Campaigns range from disaster relief to funding animals, generators and hot meals. You can donate directly to specific causes.
Texas Diaper Bank
The Texas Diaper Bank is working on making relief kits for families with young children.
Donate blood
Even if you’re not local, giving blood is a fantastic way to help. Find your local blood donation center.
Help affected animals
Many animals have been lost or displaced since Harvey made landfall. Austin Pets Alive is looking for individuals who can foster cats and dogs. The organization is accepting cash and in-kind donations like large plastic or metal bins with lids. SPCA of Texas is also looking for help in the form of foster homes. The organization is also accepting cash and in-kind donations like cat litter, litter boxes, crates, toys, treats and gas gift cards.
Write letters
Looking for other ways to help beyond donating money? Encourage the kids to write handwritten notes to local police, firefighters and staff and volunteers at hospitals, schools and churches in the areas affected by the hurricane.