Hurricane Harvey is one of the most destructive storms in history. It set a new record this August when it slammed into Houston, Texas. This Category 4 storm dumped over 50 inches of rain on the Houston metropolitan area. That is more rainfall than has come from any previous single storm in United States history. Harvey’s rain and wind flooded hundreds of thousands of homes and other structures. Rebuilding Houston after such a disaster will be a long process. However, the victims of Hurricane Harvey need help now. If you are a resident of the Houston area, here are some organizations that may be able to help. If you are among those who are more fortunate, please use this list to find ways of helping the people of Houston.
Help for Harvey Victims
These are some of the many organizations that need donations and volunteers in the aftermath of Harvey. However, there are many more agencies and nonprofits that are helping. NBC News has an online list of more opportunities to give or to find help.
- American Red Cross: The Red Cross is working closely with authorities to bring emergency assistance to the people of Houston. Donations and volunteers are needed. You can go to the website to donate or text “HARVEY” to 90999 to make a $10 donation via your mobile phone.
- The Salvation Army: In the wake of Harvey, the Salvation Army is once again providing food and other help to Harvey storm victims without regard to religion or other social categories. You can donate by calling 1-800-SALARMY or by going to the website.
- Airbnb: Airbnb has made its system available to people in Austin, Dallas and other Texas cities at no charge. This is a great option for those who need temporary shelter. Also, some people are offering free lodging through Airbnb to individuals and families displaced by the storm.
- Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group: The Coastal Bend organization focuses on long-term recovery efforts. It works closely with state agencies to identify and assist under-served citizens. Donations are needed to help low-income families, senior citizens, people with disabilities, single parents with small children and others who are trying to rebuild their lives after a disaster.
- Feeding Texas: Feeding Texas is a network of food banks that provide food and necessities to victims of natural disasters.
- Austin Pets Alive: This organization is helping animals who have lost their homes as a result of the hurricane. In addition to donations, the organization is seeking people who are willing to foster or adopt homeless animals.
Tax Relief
The federal government has declared the Houston region a major disaster area. This allows the Internal Revenue Service to grant filing and payment extensions to individuals and businesses residing in the affected area. In general, quarterly tax returns, individual tax returns with extensions and other forms and payments due after August 23 are not due until January 31, 2018. Also, individuals may deduct personal losses not covered by insurance on their tax returns.
Double Trouble
Hurricane Irma has caused incredible damage throughout the state of Florida. Coming on the heels of Harvey, Irma is straining the resources of nonprofit organizations such as the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity and the Salvation Army. These organizations need your donations more than ever.