Rescue and relief agencies are working around the clock along the Gulf Coast to help the thousands of people whose lives have been devastated by Hurricane Harvey. The storm made landfall over the weekend and has since been downgraded to a Tropical Storm. Harvey is now on track to become one of the worst flood disasters in U.S. history.
Texas officials say the storm has left at least nine people dead, including a family of six feared dead after flood waters swept them away in a van.
Thousands of people have been forced to leave their flooded homes, losing everything they own – and more rain and flooding is expected throughout the week. It is anticipated that many more families will be impacted.
Numerous governmental and nonprofit agencies are assisting in Texas. The American Red Cross is among them.
Hundreds of Red Cross volunteers from all over the country are on the ground, working to provide safe shelter and comfort to people impacted by the devastating storm. “We’re thankful for the dedication of volunteers who are willing to help those in need,” says Laura Allen, Executive Director of the Northeast Georgia chapter.
How you can help
As storm victims in Texas seek safety and shelter, people across the country are searching for ways to assist them. While the initial reaction may be to send supplies, the Red Cross cautions against that.
“We know Americans are generous and want to do everything they can to help after a disaster,” the agency states in a new release. “Unfortunately, collecting and sending food, clothing and other household items often does more harm than good. It takes time and money to store, sort, clean and distribute donated items, which diverts limited time and resources away from helping those most affected.”
The Red Cross says monetary donations are the best way to help them and other agencies provide immediate disaster relief.
There are several ways you can donate to the Red Cross. Visit them online at redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word HARVEY to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
For those seeking to do more, Allen says you can sign up to become a Red Cross volunteer. Visit redcross.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities and to submit an application.
Other local relief efforts
(photo/Facebook)
