In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, many New Yorkers are still without power or heat in their homes as temperatures drop. Others have been completely displaced due to flooding and various damages. So what can you and your family do to help? We’ve gathered five ways to give your time and resources to those in need right now:
1. American Red Cross
A donation to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief ensures that emergency workers have the essential resources they need to do their work, including basic health care, providing shelter and meals, and offering emotional support. To donate $10, text REDCROSS to 90999. You can also donate blood by visiting their website. Also, be sure to watch (and donate if you can!) the NBC telethon concert tonight, which benefits the American Red Cross in their hurricane relief efforts. Featured artists include Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Joel, and Bruce Springsteen, who are all originally from New York and New Jersey.
2. New York Cares
Our city’s largest volunteer organization, New York Cares, is a wonderful way to volunteer–and know that you’re giving your time where it’s needed most. Your family can sign up to volunteer on their website, or simply let them know where help is needed. To donate $10, text ICARE to 85944.
3. The Salvation Army
You can help feed those devastated by the hurricane with a donation to The Salvation Army. To donate $10, text STORM to 80888. Monetary donations will help the organization in providing food and shelter. At this time, in-kind donations such as clothing or furniture are not being accepted. But please keep in mind that such items are usually welcome at the organization as part of their daily work.
4. NYC Mayor’s Fund
Financial donations to the Mayor’s Fund will go entirely to hurricane relief efforts, for both immediate and long-term recovery. Founded nearly twenty years ago, this not-for-profit fosters public-private partnerships in support of public programs that advance New York City.
5. The Humane Society
Given the countless families that had to evacuate during the storm, The Humane Society is offering unparalleled support for food- and shelter-seeking pets. This animal rescue organization accepts donations on its website and provides regular updates regarding pet-friendly shelters and other local resources on Facebook and Twitter.
Plus, pitch in and clean up our local parks this weekend to help restore our city’s public spaces. Find information on how you can volunteer here.
