Gustav-how you can help

HURRICANE RECOVERY INFORMATION:
HOW YOU CAN HELP


DONATIONS
·The best way you can help victims of Hurricane Gustav is to donate money to an organization such as the ones listed below that specializes in disaster response.
·Most charities do not accept individual donations of food, clothing and supplies, because of the cost and logistics of sorting the goods and getting them to the disaster site. Also, some families affected by the disaster feel more comfortable using a voucher to buy new clothes than wearing donated -- particularly second-hand -- clothing.
·If you are in an area that has been directly affected by the storm or is sheltering victims, contact local charities who may be accepting donated goods. Many states far from the disaster area may open shelters. Also, check with local houses of worship, because many may be funneling donated goods to sister congregations in areas where there are shelters.

VOLUNTEERING
·Do not go directly to the disaster area to offer your help. Organizations like the Red Cross are sending only volunteers who have had extensive training in emergency response and disaster recovery.
·Contact the local chapter of one of the organizations listed below to find out how you can volunteer locally. There are many ways to support the recovery effort even if you're not at the actual disaster site.

1.AMERICAN RED CROSS
To donate or volunteer online, log on to redcross.org
For Donations: 1-800-HELP-NOW
2.SALVATION ARMY
To donate online or volunteer, log on to salvationarmyusa.org
To donate by phone, call: 1-800-SAL-ARMY
3.CATHOLIC CHARITIES
To donate online, log on to catholiccharitiesusa.org
To donate by phone, call (800) 919-9338
To volunteer contact your local Catholic Diocese which you can find in your phone book or online at catholiccharitiesusa.org.
4.USA FREEDOM CORPS
USA Freedom Corps is working with partners in the non-profit and national service community to inform Americans how they can help. To find out about volunteer opportunities, log on to usafreedomcorps.gov
5.Check networkforgood.org for many more opportunities to volunteer or donate.