The 2017 hurricane season has only just begun, but already two storms of historic proportions have struck the U.S. Many residents in the affected areas have lost everything and been forced to evacuate. Recovery is likely to take months, even years, and a lot of money. Despite our faults, Americans have a tradition of helping those in need, but it is important to ensure you are helping in the right way and via credible organizations.
General Assistance
Even before the storms had subsided thousands were taking to social media to ask where they could donate and how they could help. Businesses and well-meaning individuals from coast to coast set up funding sites and organized collection points. But is this really helpful?
According to emergency management experts, it depends. Unless specifically requested donations of food, clothing or household goods are generally NOT able to be used. In past recovery efforts, there were often concerns regarding the condition of such items and they were discarded without ever being used. In other cases, there was not viable distribution system in place when donations were received so items were placed in storage and often damaged or spoiled before they could be distributed- again they were discarded.
Monetary donations are what is most needed and easiest to put to use immediately. But you need to ensure your donation will actually reach those in need. The American Red Cross has a long history of assisting with disaster recovery, including the distribution of donations. Plus, the Red Cross is an established part of each state’s emergency management system so they have the contact in place and people on the ground to get things done. Other options would be a church or fraternal organization charities as they also have experience in responding to wide-scale needs.
What you want to avoid is blindly donating to a website, can drive or door to door solicitation. As we all know Americans have a history of coming together when threatened, but unfortunately there are also those waiting in the shadows looking for an opportunity to take advantage of your well-meaning attitude. Every time a disaster strikes there are reports of scam artists setting up fake funds, taking donations at public events or even hosting charity fundraisers only to pocket the cash without helping anyone in actual need.
Military and first responders
Anyone who has watched the recovery efforts for Harvey or Irma know the extraordinary job our military and first responders have done. Service members, police officers, firemen and others have traveled from all across America to help. But there were also thousands of local service members and first responders standing watch and responding to citizens in need all while their own possessions were lost. Once the water recedes and others are rebuilding they too will face the possibility of having lost everything.
Funds Used By Service Members
If you want to contribute to the recovery efforts AND ensure the funds are used by service members there are more direct routes that can be taken. Each military branch is supported by a relief or mutual assistance fund established specifically to assist members of that service who are in need. Although not officially operated by the military each is service approved and works closely with leadership to ensure the assistance is directed to the correct recipients without too much delay.
U.S Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Fund
Navy & Marine Corps Relief Fund
Army Emergency Relief
Air Force Aid Society
When it comes to assisting the law enforcement officers in the affected areas I would normally suggest contacting the department directly. Unfortunately, whole departments find themselves underwater- literally, with no one ability to make contact except in emergencies. Therefore, I am suggesting you contact the Fraternal Order of Police- if the local Lodge is not available you may also contact the statewide Lodge, either will be happy to help.
Texas State Lodge FOP
Harris County Lodge FOP
Florida State FOP Lodge
Disclaimer: The content in this article is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of US Patriot Tactical.
