At this point, we have all seen the images of the devastation that Hurricane Harvey has left behind as it moves out. Watching the news or seeing the photos on social media can only show us a fraction of the pain that everyone is enduring through this process. So many men, women, children and animals lives have been changed from this one storm.
Here are a few facts about Hurricane Harvey, in case you aren’t a news watcher or haven’t seen the latest details (via) –
- 185,149 homes estimated to be damaged or destroyed by Harvey, according to Friday’s data from the Texas Division of Emergency Management
- 364,000 people who have registered for assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as of Friday, according to FEMA.
- 42,399 people in shelters as of Friday, according to the Texas governor.
- 120,000 residents without water in Beaumont, Texas, on Thursday.
- 80 percent Texans don’t have flood insurance.
- $125 billion Texas Gov. Greg Abbot said his state will need federal relief money “far in excess” of that total. Moody’s Analytics has estimated $97 billion in destruction alone and some $108 billion in total damages counting lost output.
And as we watch this unfold, it can be a bit overwhelming knowing how to help and how to give back in such a painful time. So I did a little research online and found some resources recommended on the national news to help us give back while making sure to the scammers of the world do not take advantage of the situation. Yes, there are people who are scamming others during this awful time. True scum of the earth.
Through the Today Show and this article, I was able to find these resources:
- charitynavigator.org – find legitimate charities to give back to
- text “HARVEY to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross – redcross.org
- houstonspca.org – for information about donating to the lead nonprofit agency for animal-related disaster rescue in Houston
- houstonfoodbank.org – to donate food and water to Houston
It may seem like your $10 or $100 or even $1000 won’t go very far, but it can make a difference. Think about how much clean bottled water that someone can purchase with $10. Think about the diapers they can purchase. Or the dog food. A small amount of money can make all the difference for victims.
Texas is one of my favorite places to visit. It’s the only other state I’ve considered living in. And that’s because the people of Texas are some of the kindest, most supportive, most loving people I’ve ever met. And they deserve to receive love and support through this trying time. If you can, please give back in any way and help the victims rebuild and stay healthy through this confusing and devastating time. Anything we can do right now will help someone.
The scale of this disaster is unprecedented … I’ll figure out a way to help soon!
Hi there! I think it’s great that you are doing your part to inform & help. I live in Texas & have family in Houston. One resource that I didn’t see on your list & highly recommend is the fundrasing site that JJ Watt started: youcaring.com/jjwatt. He has made it very clear that all the money is going back to the people & efforts to help with relief & rebuilding. He constantly updates Facebook & instagram with exactly what he will do with the money, in this short term emergency situation but also the long term, because this will take months for sure, probably years to completely recover from. Worth looking into for sure.
Texans really appreciate your help!
Thank you Juli! (From a Texas girl)
Thank you for pausing the regular blog posts (which I love) to show support for Texas! I was not affected by the flooding but have many family and friends that were and it’s truly touching to see those across the country doing what they can to make an impact. You are right, every little bit counts.
it’s so devastating. anything we can do will help in some small way!
If you are still looking for a way to donate in a tangible way – to real people who are doing something that has clear benefit:
https://operationbbqrelief.org/
They work with local organizations to provide meals to those affected including the first responders.
I love your blog and I love your podcast. I’m a daily reader and a weekly listener. But, as a Houstonian, this post makes me a lifer (no pressure in case you want to retire to a lake or a world-sailing yacht). Thanks for caring and for posting.
Thank you, from Houston. This hurricane was unlike any we’ve ever seen (and we’ve seen many!)
I’m hesitant to give to the Red Cross only because it isn’t a non-profit, 100% if the donations don’t go to disaster relief. And the Red Cross isn’t always aware of where the funds are going.
Lots of our Texnas players started up non-profits that are taking donations and giving those to churches and shelters to use as needed to aid in food, clean water, feminine hygene products, baby clothing, etc. They are also purchasing cleaning products and loading up to help families clean their homes and make it safe for living. SO SO many Houstonians have to rip sheetrock out of their homes and need special masks and equipment. These churches donate the time and products needed to help out.
I would also give to the Houston Food Bank and HSPCA. And seriously, ANY amount helps.
So much love from Houston <3