(STORY IMAGE:KHQ.COM)
HOUSTON -If you've been watching the devastating coming from the Houston area after Hurricane Harvey, you may be wondering how you can help with relief. There are several options if you're interested.
Here's what we found:
National Organizations:
- The American Red Cross is accepting donations on its website, or you can text HARVEY to 90999 to donate $10.
- AmeriCares handles medicine and supplies to those affected by the storm.
- -Donations to the Salvation Army can be made online or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) or by texting STORM to 51555.
Houston-area organizations:
- The Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund of Houston’s mayor, Sylvester Turner, which is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation.
- Houston Food Bank and the Food Bank of Corpus Christi are asking for donations.
- To help animals suffering from the disaster, visit the Houston Humane Society or the San Antonio Humane Society.
- The Texas Diaper Bank in San Antonio is asking for diapers and wipes, which can be dropped off in person or mailed to 5415 Bandera Road, Suite 504, San Antonio, Tex., 78238.
Online Organizations:
- GoFundMe has created a page with all of its Harvey-related campaigns.
- YouCaring has a fund-raising page set up by J. J. Watt of the Houston Texans with a goal of $1 million. By 6 p.m. Monday it had raised more than $700,000.
Before you give money, it's important to do a little research to avoid being scammed. Charity Navigator is a great tool. They have a list of organizations that are responding to the area in the aftermath. Also, check out the Federal Trade Commission's tips to avoid fraudsters.
The BBB has also offered these tips on helping victims of Hurricane Harvey.