Hurricane Florence has left more than 500,000 homes without power and at least 17 people have died in storm-related incidents according to CBS News.
After a disaster occurs, whether it’s caused by natural elements or human actions, you may find yourself looking for specific ways to help those affected. But with so many options, where can you give to make sure your donation is the most helpful?
Community foundations are a wise choice for aiding in disaster because they know the communities most affected, have a clear process for vetting and deploying donations and are invested in the long-term recovery of a community.
While community foundations can make immediate grants from disaster funds to help with relief efforts, they can also use funding months and years later – working with local government, nonprofits and other organizations – to rebuild the community for the long-term.
Several community foundations in areas affected by Hurricane Florence have activated disaster recovery funds to help those affected in surrounding communities:
South Carolina: Central Carolina Community Foundation One SC Fund
North Carolina: North Carolina Community Foundation Disaster Relief Fund & Foundation for the Carolinas Hurricane Florence Response Fund
Florida: Community Foundation of Collier County Hurricane Florence Relief Fund
Fund-holders at Arkansas Community Foundation are able to grant from their funds to aid in relief efforts. If you’re interested in doing so, contact our Development team at 501-372-1116. For more information about disaster philanthropy and efforts to aid those affected by Hurricane Florence, visit the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.
For 10 additional reasons why Community Foundations are a smart option for disaster giving, check out this article by Forbes: 10 Ways Community Foundations Are A Best-Bet For Disaster Giving.