We may be far removed from the devastation of the massive storm along the eastern seaboard, but there are ways you can help.
We want to provide residents of our mountain communities with information about things you can do to offer some assistance to those whose lives have been devasted by this storm. These are just some of the organizations who need your help:Red Cross – always front and center in these types of disasters, the American Red Cross will be asking all Americans to donate blood. They have had to cancel nearly 100 blood drives due to the storm, and ask all citizens eligible to do so, to donate blood, regardless of where they live. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule a blood donation, or participate in our local blood drive at Jamba Juice in Oakhurst on Saturday, Nov. 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
In addition to blood donations, financial donations have the most immediate and widespread impact. You can donate to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief fund online or donate $10 from your mobile phone by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
The Salvation Army – has dozens of mobile feeding units and shelters along the East Coast that are working to serve thousands in the most heavily hit areas. Visit www.salvationarmyusa.org to donate.
AmeriCares – delivering medicines, medical supplies and aid to people affected by Hurricane Sandy. They placed emergency response teams and mobile clinics on stand-by in preparation for the storm. To donate, visit www.americares.org.
Feeding America – delivers over 3 billion pounds of emergency food, water and supplies to Americans every year. They are in the disaster zone working to distribute to the storm’s victims. To donate, visit www.feedingamerica.org or call 800-910-5524.
World Vision – is distributing flood clean-up kits, personal hygiene items and emergency food kits to people hit by the hurricane. To donate, visit www.worldvision.org.
Save the Children – is also working to provide relief to families and their children. Visit www.savethechildren.org to donate.
Humane Society Disaster Relief Fund – so many pets have also been affected by the storm. The Humane Society of the United States has a disaster relief fund that supports animal rescue and relief efforts. You can donate online and your funds will be dedicated specifically to disaster relief projects.
