With all the horrific events that have occurred in the wake of Hurricane Harvey over the past week, I wanted to post something regarding how to help. Let me add that to anyone affected, my heart goes out to you. I truly wish I knew what more to say, but I honestly do not know what more I can say. Instead of waffling on, I wanted to share some ways we can all help whether it be a financial donation, donation of something physical, or actual volunteer activities that are available to those in the area. Obviously being an animal lover and cruelty free blogger, I cannot leave out the animals that are in just as much need as the people. I hope this listing is helpful and that many of you will choose to pitch in in whatever manner you are capable.
Articles with Ways to Help, Donate & Avoid Scams (including Links for Donations)
Great article from The New York Times with local organizations, national organizations, ways to help online, as well as tips to help avoid scams.
CNN has a great roundup of groups that need help if you’re in the area. There’s also a donate button that allows you to provide a donatation that will be split between a number of CNN-verified (as in legit, not necessecarily endorsed) charities – you can see which charities are included. Whether you want to donate via their link or not is up to you, but I recommend checking out the charities they have included if you prefer to pick and choose.
Quick Note on the Red Cross:
I know that some people feel that supporting to the Red Cross is not a great option and that money is better sent elsewhere. I’m not taking a stand either way on the Red Cross as I don’t know enough about the controversy to have an opinion, but as I understand things, the Red Cross is often one of the first organizations on the ground to help. Given that, I urge you not to overlook the option of donating to the Red Cross. You can make a $10 donation by texting the word HARVEY to 90999.
Animal-Related Charities (in no particular order)
ASCPA’s Harvey Relief Disaster Response
Humane Society of the United States Disaster Relief Fund
Animal Defense League of Texas
There are so many more places that I’m sure could use help in whatever form you’re able to provide, but I feel like these are some great places to start. I would also encourage you to seek out smaller organizations that likely do not get as much attention, though I would double check with Charity Navigator before donating to ensure the organization is legitimate.
I hope this has been helpful and I hope you will consider helping out in whatever way you’re able. Again, my heart goes out to all those affected by Hurricane Harvey.
