How to Help After a Natural Disaster

With Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria dominating the news, it’s easy to feel helpless in the wake of such personal tragedy. In this technology-driven world, we’re witnessing breaking news; reading, seeing and hearing first-hand how these disasters personally impact individuals and communities. Who can forget the faces of the heroes, carrying children through the flooded streets or rescuing the elderly and those trapped in flooded homes and apartments? Those interviewed after losing their loved ones, homes, schools and places of employment break our hearts.
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We’ve witnessed acts of courage, heroism and extensions of human kindness, but with such disaster, it’s hard to know what to say and do. Here are some ideas and thoughts on how to lend support following a natural disaster:

1. Empathy goes a long way in responding to such a catastrophe and Zig Ziglar said it best: “You never know when a moment and a few sincere words can have an impact on a life.” When you interact with survivors, volunteers, or anyone impacted by the disaster, acknowledge the loss and share your sadness. People feel comforted knowing you care.
2. Offer safe shelter. If you have room and know someone who has lost their home and has no place to go, sharing your space is a blessing. As reported on national news, a family whose home was intact invited strangers from a shelter to share their home. There are heartwarming stories of neighbors taking in neighbors and friends finding refuge with other friends. For more information on how you can open your home to those in need or how to help someone find emergency accommodations.
3. Towels and clean clothing are in demand (but confirm before sending) as well as baby diapers and wipes. So many survivors left their homes with nothing but the clothing on their backs. There will be a long-term need for comfortable clothing and sundry items. Watch the news programs and the media to see what else will be needed in the coming days. The Texas Tribune has an extensive and vetted list of Texas and national organizations that will provide necessities and could use all types of donations. The New York Times has a vetted list as well.
4. Communicate your availability. There is a tremendous need for volunteers within these hard-hit communities. The Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group has a volunteer registration by skills. National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters has an extensive list with links to their national  members who need volunteers and donations.
5. One of the most expedient ways to help is by making a donation, but be wary of scams. The FTC has published Advice for Helping Hurricane Harvey Victims where you’ll find suggestions on “Wise Giving After the Storm.” If you are looking to help someone through recovery there is a section “For Picking up the Pieces.” It’s safe to choose well-known national disaster relief organizations or use those recommended and listed on the websites of national news organizations or your local newspaper.
6. What can you do on a more personal level? If you are interacting with survivors, listen; allow them to cry or talk. Sharing their story, often over and over again, is a way for them to begin to make sense of what has happened as well as working through the healing process. If a survivor asks you for specific help, do your best to fulfill their wishes.
7. Don’t forget the children; they’ll need extra help in dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. Tragic Times, Healing Words was originally prepared by Sesame Street Research for 9/11, but it offers relevant suggestions and guidelines for parents and caregivers on how to help children after a crisis. 

photo credit: The National Guard Texas National Guard via photopin (license)

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