Where To Donate For Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is upon us. For those of us who don’t live in geographic regions affected by hurricanes, we can sometimes forget the devastation these natural disasters can cause. In 2017 alone, Hurricanes Maria, Irma, and Harvey caused more than $200 billion in damage. The storms also claimed the lives of many people, including 4,645 Puerto Rican citizens in Hurricane Maria and its aftermath.
Unfortunately, many nonprofits only send a small percentage of your donation to the cause you’re contributing to. For a sustainable business model, it is expected that nonprofits will allot a small percentage for administrative fees. However, some spend your money more wisely than others. CharityWatch and CharityNavigator are great resources to monitor how your donations are being spent.
Here are a few of the most reputable charities if you’re looking to donate towards hurricane relief this year.
Episcopal Relief and Development
“Healing a hurting world” is the tagline of Episcopal Relief and Development. This top rated nonprofit provides relief in times of disaster, such as hurricanes, and promotes sustainable development. They have their roots in the Episcopal Church, their mandate coming from the Bible’s Matthew 25: 37-40.
International Relief Teams
International Relief Teams aims to alleviate suffering caused by poverty and disaster worldwide. They send volunteer teams, relief supplies, and other assistance to those who need it most. They have provided $372 million in humanitarian aid to 68 countries. One of their featured causes is Hurricane Harvey relief, where they provided immediate aid to Texas and Louisiana and continue to provide long-term assistance.
Operation USA
Operation USA boasts that they operate without government aid contracts, relying exclusively on the generosity of others. The nonprofit is also very budget-conscious, with less than 10 full-time employees on staff. Operation USA helps children and families recover and thrive in the wake of disasters. They work with grassroots partners to provide immediate disaster relief, then remain committed to the long-term recovery support for those areas.
Donating cash is often the best way to help, but volunteering your time is also valuable to those affected by natural disasters. Keep in mind that the recovery can take years or even decades. These nonprofits can use your contributions year round, not just in the weeks immediately after a natural disaster.
