How to help Louisiana flood victims, should you donate money or send nonperishable goods to those affected by the disaster? Alternatively, should you become a volunteer and give your time and energy?
Many people in America, well, all over the world are asking themselves those questions after watching the news or reading an article online about how hard Louisiana has been hit again.
Thus far the torrential rains of the 2016 Louisiana Flood have killed 12 innocent people, according to The Louisiana Fire Marshal.
Since the rain started on August 12 in South Louisiana, more than 20,000 people, have lost their homes and have been forced to seek refuge in shelters. Over 40,000 homes and buildings have been destroyed.
Governor John Bel Edwards called the disaster a “historic, unprecedented flooding event that is comparable to Hurricane Katrina,” and declared a state of emergency. President Barack Obama, who has been staying up to date on the flooding situation, has offered his prayers to the people of Louisiana.
POTUS moved quickly to grant the emergency declaration to four of the parishes that have been hit hardest by the flooding. FEMA is rapidly responding to emergency needs of residents. According to the White House:
“The president’s disaster declaration means that federal funding will become available to affected individuals in the four parishes, and possibly more if the declaration is expanded as damage is assessed and storms continue across the state. That assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, as well as low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses. The disaster declaration also makes federal funding available for state and local government emergency and recovery efforts.”
Many famous names such as Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift have donated millions to the state and if you are wondering how can you help the thousands of Louisiana flood victims, here is a great list of organizations that are working around the clock.
If you live in the state, dropping off items is the way to go.
– Things like diapers, clothing, gift cards, canned goods, and pet food are always welcomed.
Another way to help is to volunteer via The Red Cross.
It is also possible to donate money to the Red Cross online or over the phone by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or by texting “LAFLOODS” to 90999.
The Salvation Army is also accepting funds to help those made homeless by the disaster.
Via the United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s website, you can either get an application form to become a volunteer or make donations specifically for relief in Louisiana.
Money donations can be given to Harvest Food Bank, which provides food and water to victims.
The Gulf Coast Floods Children’s Relief Fund, which helps children and families, is accepting monetary donations.