The Red Cross is probably the best-known emergency relief organization in the countrybut theyrenot necessarily the best.
As you decide how to support the relief efforts, consider not just where you give butwhat.
Seethis Wired piecefor more on why.
(And kindly dont sendunsoliciteddonations of materials to any organization.
Odds are they cannot use it.)
And if it matters to you, check before you donate to see if your contribution will be tax-deductible.
GuideStar has a robust guide to deciding where to donatehere.
Heart to Heart Internationalcoordinates aid distribution and offers medical support.
Team Rubiconunites the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams.
United Way of Greater Houstonaddresses immediate needs like food and shelter as well as long-term recovery.
(Two other local organizationsAqui EstamosandNetaare collected funds for these efforts, too.)
Texas Diaper Bankdistributes to babies, seniors, and disabled people.
Living Hope Wheelchair Associationaccepts monetary donations as well as donations of used wheelchairs.
Portlightfocuses on helping people with disabilities, including in disaster relief.
South Texas Human Rights Centerworks to protect immigrant families.
Austin Pets Alivehas taken in hundreds of lost or displaced pets.
Theyre accepting monetary and material donations.
SPCA of Texasis helping coordinate animal rescue efforts.
Houston Humane Societyis accepting monetary donations to help local animals affected by the storm.
