How to Help Victims of Recent Harmful Hurricanes

The U.S. was hit with four powerful hurricanes in the past month, impacting southern states and territories. Hurricane Harvey first hit on August 17, 2017 followed by Hurricane Irma hitting on August 30, 2017. These two hurricanes destroyed homes in their paths. Hurricane Jose hit on September 5, 2017 and Hurricane Maria hit on September 19, 2017. These two were also devastating, leaving countries without power and many without shelter. People have donated money to these communities but donating money is not the only option. Food, clothes, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene supplies, and blood are also necessary. Many places are accepting donations to help the victims of these natural disasters including the Red Cross.

Hurricane Harvey hit the U.S. over a month ago but a large number of people are still homeless and in need. The Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund provides constant support and relief, and BeyGood Houston, created by Beyonce, is collecting donations from feminine products to bedding. One America Appeal, created by five former presidents, is accepting monetary donations.

“More than one million people have been displaced by Harvey, which has caused up to $180 billion in damages to over 200,000 homes over a 300-mile path of destruction,” according to their site.

Best Friends Animal Society is working hard to bring lost pets back to their owners and San Antonio Humane Society is housing pets who were lost. Freshman 1 at Padua accepted pet foods to donate to Harvey victims. These two organizations are accepting any kind of donation related to pet food and supplies.

Comedian Kevin Hart started the “Hurricane Harvey Relief Challenge”, challenging other celebrities to donate money to help those affected.

In Florida, relief efforts continue after Hurricane Irma. All Faiths Food Bank provides food to people in need and Feeding South Florida also provides food to those in need. Humane Society of Greater Miami is retrieving as many pets as they can and will try to reunite the animals with their owners. UNICEF and OXFAM are making sure that there is safe water and sanitation.

Puerto Rico was hit hard by Hurricane Jose.  Millions were without power for days and food and fresh water was scarce. United for Puerto Rico was created by the First Lady of Puerto Rico, Beatriz Rosselló, bring help centers across the island. Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief Fund, and Puerto Ricans in Action are groups trying to make sure everyone has what they need, such as shelter, food, and water.

For more information about how to donate, go here.