Helping People Affected by Hurricane Laura
In the early hours of the morning, Hurricane Laura hit the coast near Cameron, Louisiana, hitting the region with winds of up to 150 miles per hour. There is already one confirmed death , and Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards says he expects more reports over the next few days. Although Louisiana has already suffered significant damage , Laura continues to move inland , where devastating winds, occasional tornadoes, storm surges and inland flooding are expected. (If you need clarification on different weather conditions, we just explained what you need to know in situations like this.)
And, as we discussed earlier, a hurricane (or any natural disaster) that occurs during a pandemic further exacerbates an already difficult situation. Many people homeless and without electricity can seek help from shelters, which can be overcrowded, making them ideal places for infectious diseases to spread (even in the absence of a pandemic).
If you want to help, here are the organizations working in the field to help the victims of Hurricane Laura. While they primarily seek cash donations, other items have also been requested, such as bottled water, disinfectants, and gasoline.
Imagine water works
This organization, led by BIPOC, is the leader of a self -help network in Louisiana. Anydonations made here will go directly to those affected by the hurricane (not the organization itself). They strive to communicate exactly how and where donated funds are used and will prioritize funding, leadership, and the safety of BIPOC residents.
Portlight Inclusive Disaster Strategies
Portlight Inclusive Disaster Strategies focuses on helping people with disabilities after a disaster. You can find out more about their work and make a donation on their website .
Project HOPE
The HOPE project deployed an emergency response team to support local efforts to assist hurricane-affected communities along the Texas and Louisiana coasts. The organization is working to help families affected by the storm itself, as well as expanding support for hard-hit community health systems. You can donate directly to Hurricane Laura relief here .
United Cajun Navy
This group of volunteers requires water from cases, gasoline and generators, as well as other volunteers with trucks and trailers to deliver supplies. Visit their website to volunteer and learn more about how and where to donate.
Rescue and assistance to the Kajun naval forces
Cajun Navy Rescue & Relief (not to be confused with the above organization) is currently seeking donations of materials including cleaning products, gumboots, insect spray, bleach, wipes, gloves, masks, respirators and disinfectants. Complete this form on their website if you are interested in donating supplies. They also accept donations .
Southwest Louisiana Community Foundation
The Southwest Louisiana Community Foundation is raising money to help people recover from widespread damage done by Laura. The donations they receive will be made available to local non-profit organizations with a proven track record of helping during and after catastrophic events. You can donate here .
All hands and hearts
This volunteer-based organization focuses not only on the short-term impact of natural disasters, but also looks for ways to help the community in the future. Their strategy is to first ask community members what they really need in a given situation. You can donate directly to their Hurricane Laura projects here .
Americares
As a health-focused relief and development organization, Americares helps people affected by poverty and / or natural disasters provide medicines, medical supplies and health programs. You can donate directly to their Hurricane Laura Relief Fund here .
Operation USA
Operation USA provides international disaster relief and development with a focus on the impact of natural disasters, disease, violence and widespread poverty. In addition to monetary donations ( which can be made here ), they are also currently requesting large corporate donations of related aid items. To find out more, contact info@opusa.org.
American Red Cross
The Red Cross is, as usual, in the states of Louisiana and Texas, providing assistance. The Louisiana and Texas Gulf Coast Red Cross branches have requested cash donations, not pandemic / sanitation supplies, and say the donations “will provide shelter, food, necessities and more.”
You can donate by visiting their website , calling 800-RED-CROSS, or emailing Laura at 90999 to make a $ 10 donation.