Hurricane Ida made landfall on Sunday as a powerful Category 4 storm. This is the largest hurricane to hit Louisiana since Katrina and the storm is causing widespread damage across Mississippi as well. Although it has been downgraded to a tropical storm as it moves northeast, it left one million homes without power and much of the damage has only begun to be assessed. If you would like to make a donation to support relief efforts, here are some of the organizations working on the ground.
Imagine Water Works
This New Orleans-based organization is supporting communities affected by Ida with emergency supplies, recovery efforts, and resiliency projects to better prepare for future storms. You can donate to their Hurricane Ida efforts here and check out their guide for disaster preparedness here.
Cajun Navy Relief
This nonprofit was founded after Hurricane Katrina and provides rescue services and emergency supplies. You can donate supplies here, apply to volunteer here, or donate funds through the organization’s PayPal here. Those affected by Ida in need of emergency supplies can contact the organization here.
Another Gulf Is Possible Collaborative
This organization is collecting relief funds through the nonprofit ActBlue. Their work focuses on racial justice and funds are distributed “directly to indigenous, black, and brown frontline folks impacted by Hurricane Ida and groups who currently don’t have online donations capacity, as well as directly to individual families impacted by the storm.” You can donate to the organization here and visit their page to learn more about other organizations offering relief to historically under-supported communities.
NOLA Ready
This is the City of New Orleans’ program to rally volunteers in the wake of a disaster. They are currently looking for volunteers for on-the-ground support. Sign up to volunteer here.
United Way
This national organization is offering relief in both Louisiana and Mississippi. You can donate here.
Mutual Aid Disaster Relief
This grassroots organization is looking for volunteers and donations. You can sign up to volunteer here and donate to the organization here.
Helping Pets
Pets are impacted by natural disasters, too. If you would like to extend support to animals as well, The Austin Humane Society, Houston SPCA in Texas, and Atlanta Human Society in Georgia are all taking in rescues and could benefit from donations. Operation Kindness and the Jefferson Parish SPCA have also partnered together to transport displaced animals.
Unfortunately, many scammers will use a crisis as an opportunity to take advantage of those looking to help. Ensure that your money is going to a valid relief organization by avoiding phone calls soliciting donations and researching the charity in question on charitynavigator.org.
