Since making landfall this past Friday, Hurricane Harvey has caused catastrophic flooding in the Houston-Galveston areas. Rescue operations are currently underway in Houston as this tropical storm’s impact continues to devastate. Our own family and friends have been affected by this relentless storm and it’s aftermath of rainfall, and our hearts are heavy for all those affected.
If you are looking for ways to help some amazing organizations are doing all they can to help out and are actively seeking money, food, and/or supplies, as well as volunteers, to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey. Be sure to check their websites and social media to see what they need most urgently right now as it will surely continue to change.
Donate Money, Food, and Other Urgent Supplies
- Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund which is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation, will accept tax deductible flood relief donations for victims.
- Houston Food Bank and the Food Bank of Corpus Christi are asking for donations.
- Texas Diaper Bank in San Antonio is asking for diapers and wipes, which can be dropped off in person or mailed to 5415 Bandera Road, Suite 504, San Antonio, Tex., 78238.
- United Way of Greater Houston flood relief fund will be used to help with immediate needs as well as long-term services like minor home repair. Visit their website to donate or text UWFLOOD to 41444.
- GoFundMe has created a page with all of its Harvey-related campaigns, including one started by the country singer Chris Young, who donated $100,000, and another created by the president and chief executive of the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce.
- YouCaring has a fund-raising page set up by J. J. Watt of the Houston Texans with a goal of $3 million. By 4 p.m. Tuesday it had raised more than $2 million.
- GlobalGiving’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund supports local organizations by helping to “meet survivors’ immediate needs for food, fuel, clean water, hygiene products and shelter.” It will also assist with longer-term recovery efforts.
Donate Blood
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. Most in demand: those with type O-positive blood.
Those interested in donating blood may contact the following organizations:
- South Texas Blood and Tissue Center has extended hours at all of its San Antonio-area donor rooms. To donate, call 210-731-5590 or visit their website for more information.
- Carter BloodCare covers hospitals in North, Central and East Texas. To donate, call 877-571-1000 or text DONATE4LIFE to 444-999.
- America’s Blood Centers
- American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
- Armed Services Blood Program: 703-681-5979
Support Animal and Pet Rescue Efforts
To help animals suffering from the disaster, visit the Houston Humane Society or the San Antonio Humane Society. The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has set up an animal emergency response hotline (713-861-3010) and is accepting donations on its website. Also check the Animal Defense League of Texas, Austin Pets Alive, and SPCA of Texas to see how you might help their efforts.
Housing Relief to Displaced Families
- Airbnb is waiving service fees for those affected by the disaster and checking in between August 23, 2017 and September 25, 2017.
Before giving money to an organization, do your research.
- Charity Navigator, which identifies worthy charities, has a handy list of organizations that are responding in the aftermath of the storm.
- Federal Trade Commission offers advice on avoiding fraudsters, check their out tips.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends checking with the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster for a list of trusted disaster-relief organizations in Texas.