On October 29 2012, Hurricane Sandy made landfall on the northeast coast of the United States, bringing with it high winds, extensive flooding, and torrential rains that forced evacuations, stranded many people in their homes, and has taken at least 150 lives. Estimates of the damages caused by the massive storm have already reached $50 billion.
In its wake, millions of people have been left without homes, electricity, transportation, food, communication (phones, internet). Help is needed in 13 states including New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Maine, Delaware, Connecticut, Michigan, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio. The storm also affected Haiti, Cuba, and Canada. Now that we are seeing the full extent of the damages caused by the storm, it is not the time for widespread panic, but rather the time to reach out with helping hands to rescue, repair, and replenish those who have survived.
Here are some ways to help:
Donate blood through the Red Cross. The organization has several blood drives going, as there is a blood and platelet shortage. Contact the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS to learn where to donate near you. You can also donate $10 by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
World Vision is an organization dedicated to the needs of children and their families. AmeriCares, International Medical Corps, and Direct Relief International are providing emergency medical supplies and care. To help, visit AmeriCares.org, DirectRelief.org, and InternationalMedicalCorps.org.
Help with the clean-up and rebuild. Team Rubicon and Samaritan’s Purse are working with veterans and volunteers in this effort. Contact them at TeamRubiconUSA.org and SamaritansPurse.org
Hurricanes and storms happen, and they’re often unpredictable. Hurricane Sandy became a superstorm and ravaged four countries, leaving 3.8 million homes and businesses without power or heat, water damage to buildings and property, and busted gas pipes to leak dangerously. Sandy was preceded by Hurricanes Katrina, Ike, and Hugo; Katrina alone caused $135 billion worth of damages. When disaster cannot be avoided, insurance helps recoup the inevitable losses.
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