Hurricane Katrina - How to Help

Hurricane Katrina has completely devastated large swaths of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. It's going to take a massive effort to get the people of these states back on their feet.

If you wish to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina, the best way is to send cash. Some organizations that allow you to donate online include:

• American Red Cross
• Operation Blessing
• America's Second Harvest
• The Salvation Army

Many groups are organizing relief efforts for the victims. FEMA has a list of relief organizations here.

If you're looking for a more direct way to help, there are many options that people don't always consider. Make yourself USEFUL! You might not be able to provide immediate help for the victims of Katrina, but this disaster shows just how important it is for every community to have citizens who know what to do in a crisis. Some ideas:

• Volunteer with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
• Take a Red Cross class in First Aid, CPR, or AED
  
• Get your Ham Radio License, join the ARRL, and provide vital communications support during emergencies
• Join the Citizen Corps and help organize and strengthen your community

Cheers to the US Coast Guard, the Army National Guard, the Air National Guard, the local police, firemen, and first responders. Thank you for your tireless efforts to rescue victims and restore order. You guys are heroes!

UPDATE: Instapundit has much more information on how to help, as well as countless links to other Katrina-related news.

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