Here’s how you can help
Money is the quickest, most- effective contribution most people can make during times of disaster, say charities and philanthropy experts. And it’s counterproductive to send food, clothing or furniture at this point, because there is no place for it in the flood zone.
Here’s how to make sure you are giving in a way that matters the most:
Give to established agencies
To support Red Cross volunteers, call 1-800-7332767, go to redcross.org or text “HARVEY” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. To volunteer, go to redcross. org/volunteer.
To donate to the Salvation Army to provide food and shelter for victims, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY, go to helpsalvationarmy.org or text “STORM” to 51555. Mail checks designated “Hurricane Harvey” to The Salvation Army, PO Box 1959, Atlanta, GA, 30301.
Timing of donations
The quickest way to give is to go to the charity’s website and donate directly, using a credit or debit card. That said, relief agencies will need money beyond the first few days or even weeks, so if the ease of text donations appeals to you, tap away. Apple users in the U.S. also can donate to the American Red Cross through the company’s iTunes and app stores.
Donations often pour in immediately after disaster strikes but peter out during the long recovery process. Consider saving some of your money so you can donate again in a few weeks or months. Better yet, set up a recurring monthly donation to support your chosen charity over time.
Vet relief agencies
Check GuideStar’s website, which has a database for that purpose. You can find information on a charity’s expenses, assets and revenue, as well as its programs.
Crowdfunding
Group fundraising services such as GoFundMe let people raise money for friends, families, neighbors or themselves — as well as for charity. As always, do your homework before giving to a stranger or cause online.
GoFundMe has a special page for Hurricane Harvey pleas for charities, individuals and families.
GlobalGiving, a crowdfunding site for charities, is trying to raise $2 million for local relief and recovery efforts. YouCaring is another popular choice.