Relief efforts are ongoing in multiple countries as Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, Hurricane Maria and the southern Mexico earthquake have affected millions of people altogether.

Efforts are underway across the United States to provide supplies and monetary donations to help people affected.

SHOULD I DONATE MONEY OR SUPPLIES?

Monetary donations are recommended in favor of items, because goods require storage and transportation, and they often go to waste. Check the charitable organization to which you are considering donating goods to verify its policies. The American Red Cross, for example, will consider bulk donations of water, blankets, and diapers.

DONATING TO THE RED CROSS VIA TEXT

The Red Cross is asking for monetary donations to purchase what they need for families in their shelters, and, of course, volunteers. The organization is urging people to make a minimum donation of $10 by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting REDCROSS to 90999.

OTHER DONATION TIPS

  • Be sure to research the organization to which you are considering donating. Consider using tools such as Charity Watch or Charity Navigator.
  • Do not donate cash; use a credit card or a check that is made payable to the charity.
  • Do not provide credit card or personal information over the phone or by text message.
  • Do not respond to spam emails. Check the Department of Homeland Security’s tips to avoid phishing attacks
  • Use caution with telephone solicitations and campaigns set up by individuals on sites such as GoFundMe.
  • If you donate via text, confirm with the organization that it has authorized contributions to be made via text message.

CLICK THROUGH FOR DONATING INFORMATION TO THE FOLLOWING NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: