Helping After Harvey

With the disastrous hurricane season finally winding down, Americans living along the coastal waters of the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico are now in the recovery phase. Hurricane Harvey, in particular, devastated Texas’s Gulf of Mexico coastline, leaving thousands stranded without homes, power or basic necessities. Because of this tragedy, Texans and out-of-state residents alike have pulled together to provide relief to the heavily afflicted Houston and Corpus Christi regions. If you’re interested in helping, consider the following options to ensure Harvey victims get the most out of your efforts.

Reputable Charities

No one ever wants to believe people could try to profit off the suffering of others during a disaster like Harvey. However, many so-called “private charities” are actually just frauds that keep all or most donations for themselves. If you’re hoping to donate money or supplies to a charity organization, you should take steps to ensure the charity you have in mind will actually pass along your donation to those in need. Even if your charity of choice is well-known, do extra research to make sure the majority of your donation gets to Texans in need. Charities need money to function, of course, but the lion’s share of your monetary donation shouldn’t be going into an executive’s pocket.
Luckily, the Texas state government has compiled a short list of charities that are truly working to rebuild Texas. Among these charities are the American Red Cross Harvey Assistance Program, Rebuild Texas Fund and the Salvation Army. Find more charities here.

Donate Thoughtfully
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Disasters are emotionally and mentally taxing events, but being stressed is better than going hungry. There’s a common misconception among donors that victims want creature comforts more than anything else in times of need. While a stuffed animal to cuddle with may make sleeping easier for a child, the entire family may benefit far more from basic necessities. Donate shampoo, soap, clean water, food and other hygiene products to get the most mileage from your donation. More victims can utilize these products, and they will have to worry less about when their next meal or shower is coming.

Provide Assistance

If monetary and physical donations aren’t cutting it for you, you can always get out there and donate your time to those in need! Numerous organizations are still on the ground in the Houston area to assist with the rebuilding efforts. They’d love to have you! Volunteering on location is a great way to connect with the victims of disasters, but many may find it too large of a time commitment to work with their lifestyle. For those who don’t have the time to deal with the nitty-gritty, donating blood can be another excellent way to volunteer yourself for victims of Harvey.

Can’t donate time or blood? Open your home to the people and animals who need a safe shelter while they rebuild. Some charities are sponsoring housing programs for displaced human victims, while Texas’s local animal shelters and welfare leagues can help connect you with animals in need of loving foster or forever homes.
 
RV Resorts in Palm Valley, Pharr, Mission and Alamo, TX
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No matter how you help, every bit counts. At Wilder RV Resorts, we understand while Harvey is gone, thousands are still dealing with displacement. We want to assist any victims or out-of-state volunteers we can by providing a comfortable, safe, resort-style experience. To learn more about our relief efforts for Hurricane Harvey victims or to make a reservation, contact us online today!