On Sunday, August 29th, the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Ida struck the Gulf Coast. The Category 4 storm pummelled the Louisiana coast, knocking down trees and buildings, leaving millions without power, and causing at least two confirmed death in the state.
Even now that Ida has been downgraded to a tropical storm on its way to Mississippi, many in Louisiana have been left dealing with severe flooding and damage from the 150-mph winds.
There are currently more than 2,200 evacuees staying in 41 shelters. Louisiana’s Gov. John Bel Edwards said he expects this number to grow as more are displaced by flooding. The governor reported Monday that President Joe Biden declared Ida a disaster. This disaster status means that federal funds will go towards rescue and recovery efforts.
However, there is still a great deal of need in the area. While the City of New Orleans itself cannot accept donations, many organizations and aid efforts are collecting donations from those who wish to help.
Below is a list of five of these organizations. While not exhaustive by any means, any donation to these organizations goes a long way in helping those currently in need of aid.
The American Red Cross
Go to the American Red Cross website and select the amount you would like to give. The minimum is $10, and all donations are tax deductible. Under the “I want to support” dropdown bar, select “Hurricane Ida,” and your donation will go towards the victims of the hurricane.
To donate to the Red Cross fund, click here.
The Greater New Orleans Foundation
In anticipation Hurricane Ida’s destruction, The Greater New Orleans Foundation activated the Disaster Response and Restoration Fund. To donate to this fund, click here.
When filling out the donation form, be sure to fill out the “Specify the Fund” box. Write “Hurricane Ida” or “Ida” to ensure your funds are going to disaster response.
International Medical Corps
The International Medical provides emergency relief and medical supplies to families and communities who are struck by disaster and disease. Donate to their Ida-specific relief fund here.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides food, drinks, shelter, and emergency services to disaster survivors and rescue workers. By donating to The Salvation Army, 100% of your donation is applied to disaster relief.
To read more about what The Salvation Army and its volunteers are doing to help, click here. To donate through The Salvation Army to help the victims of Hurricane Ida, click here and select “Hurricane Ida” on the dropdown bar of support options.
United Way of Southeast Louisiana
This branch of United Way is seeking donations to help both immediate relief efforts and long-term community rebuilding in areas impacted by Ida. To donate to the United Way fund, click here.
Unfortunately, following a natural disaster fraudulent charities may pop to try to get people to donate. To avoid being caught by one of them, always give to trusted, mainstream organizations.
If you are unsure about an organization, utilize the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance or Charity Navigator.
To those in places currently affected by Ida, our hearts go out to you. Stay safe, Concealed Coalition Family.
