You may also consider donating money to organizations like ASPCA and The Humane Society to help animals that have been affected. If you’re looking for groups that help those in need, Feeding America and Samaritan’s Purse are trustworthy organizations. Want to specifically help young people in crisis? Consider Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Step Up for Students, and Compassion International.
For example, if a hurricane hits in Florida and there’s a huge immediate need for help, you might donate to Volunteer Florida or the Heart of Florida United Way. [4] X Research source
Once you have collected the money, donate it to a national organization or local program. Ask your school or workplace if they’ll match your donations!
You can donate blood at any time, even before a disaster strikes. Your blood will be held on reserve, and will be immediately available to use when it’s needed. Anyone can donate so long as you’re between 18 and 65 years of age and you don’t have any disease or condition which can be transferred via blood.
Sometimes, even basic necessities, like water bottles, can’t be accepted due to logistics like storage space and delivery costs, so it’s best to call ahead or check online to find out what’s needed. The supplies that are needed often depend on the type of disaster. For instance, mops, buckets, and dehumidifiers might be needed if you want to help flood victims. While it may be natural to want to send toys to help comfort children who have been affected, toys are typically not encouraged because they are not considered an immediate need, and also due to other concerns such as storage and distribution. [8] X Research source
Use trending hashtags to contribute to the growing conversation and spread awareness. If there is any kind of ribbon campaign (like the blue and yellow filter for the Ukrainian flag), change your profile pictures to let others know you care.
If you aren’t sure how or where to help and you live in the US, call 211 on your phone. They’ll help you find a community organization that is looking for volunteers. [11] X Research source
Contact an organization like ASPCA or the Humane Society to see how you can help provide support for animals that have been affected. [13] X Research source
For example, if you know how to do excavation, you can help by clearing and preparing land. If you do any type of construction work, you can use your skills to repair or reconstruct homes and buildings. Whether you live in the disaster area or need to travel to the disaster zone, you can help with rebuilding through organizations like Habitat for Humanity. You can also help on your own by contacting your local officials to see where help is needed. [15] X Research source Even if you are not skilled in a specific trade, you can help with other tasks like removing debris for site cleanup, shoveling, or delivering supplies.
You could even protest outside of your local public representative’s office to encourage them to do something while also spreading the word.
