The devastation of Hurricane Harvey and Irma have been been all over the media and many influencers, celebrities, and organizations have stepped forward to provide their support, mainly financial. I know that everywhere I look, I am constantly encouraged to donate to relief efforts. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably been wondering, “How do I help when I’m broke AF?”
Here’s how:
1. Volunteer
Source: 3BL Media
One of the most impactful ways to help (maybe even more impactful than donating money) is providing your physical self to those in need. These towns and homes will need to be rebuilt eventually, and the victims of these hurricanes will need help doing just that. There are many organizations that you can volunteer through, like Habitat For Humanity, NOVAD, and even Volunteer Florida. With any of these organizations, you can make plans to spend your winter break volunteering and even gather some of your friends to do it with you!
2. Fundraise!
You may not have a lot of money to spare donating, but you can certainly promote organizations like The Humane Society of the United States’ Disaster Relief Fund and Global Giving. A wonderful idea would to create a fundraising drive on your campus either with friends or a club you’re involved in to raise money for one of these organizations. An easier option would also be to simply post on any of your social media accounts promoting organizations to friends and family that you know can chip in a few dollars.
3. Give Blood
Source: The Times Weekly
Signing up to give blood through the Red Cross is an often overlooked but invaluable way to help. The Red Cross is always in need of more blood, especially in times of natural disasters. All you have to do is go to their website, make an account, and search for blood drives in your area. This is a great option, especially if you’re a universal donor (where my Type O’s at?!)
4. Buy Some Donuts!
If you do happen to have a couple dollars you’re willing to spend, Firecakes Donuts, located in Chicago, is offering Hearts for Hurricane Relief until the end of September. These heart-shaped, chocolate and pecan-covered donuts are delicious and for a good cause! Firecakes has promised that 100% of the profits made from these donuts will go towards hurricane relief. So go get yourself a donut!
And if you find that none of these are viable options for you, remember that there is no better way to help in times like these than to take care of your own community. For many of us living far away from the devastation of Harvey and Irma, it can be so easy to ignore the needs of these hurricane victims. However, there is always someone in our own communities that has been affected by life’s many other tragedies that needs our help. Get involved in your own community, and let’s all take care of each other.