How to Help People Affected by Hurricanes
Experiencing the destruction of a hurricane first hand can be a harrowing experience for even the most prepared. And for many, the recovery process can feel like going through a second natural disaster.
Thankfully, there are resources out there to help hurricane victims get back on their feet and educate people on hurricane relief efforts. From relief workers to individual volunteers, there are plenty of people who want to lend a hand. If you’re among those wondering how to help hurricane disaster survivors recover, this disaster relief guide lists the best ways to make a difference.
Five hurricane facts
Over the last two to three decades, rising sea levels and increased ocean temperatures have led to more severe storms across the globe. From Hurricane Katrina in 2005 to Hurricane Beryl in 2024, the last 20 years has produced some monster storms in the US.
Hurricane season in the US typically starts on June 1, and will end on November 30. In July 2024, Storm Beryl caused significant damage and killed 8 people. It was the earliest Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record.
Scientists warn that if we don’t take action to reverse climate change, extreme weather will only continue to worsen. Below are some other startling facts about hurricanes.
- On an average three-year period, roughly five hurricanes hit US coastlines and kill 50-100 people, according to the National Weather Service.
- Ninety percent of all hurricane deaths occur from storm surges, according to National Geographic.
- Hurricane winds can reach up to nearly 200 miles per hour, according to National Geographic.
- Just one inch of water can cause $27,000 in damages to the average home, according to SBP.
- Scientists predict that there will be a 45-87 percent increase in the frequency of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes in the continental US in the remainder of the 21st century, according to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions.
Preparing for the storm
Living in a hurricane-prone area requires you to be alert during the hurricane season, which runs from August to November, for any significant storms that may be approaching.
The American Red Cross recommends that you put together a survival kit. Keep your supplies in an emergency preparedness kit that is easy to carry and can be used at home or taken with you if you need to evacuate before hurricane landfall.
- If ordered to, evacuate immediately and go to a safe place. Know where you will go, how you will get there, and where you will stay.
- Be ready to live without power, water, gas, phone, and internet for a long time.
- Practice going to a designated safe shelter for high winds. The following best protection is a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level that is not likely to flood.
- If you are in an area likely to flood, designate a location on higher ground that you can move to before flood waters reach you.
If you have to evacuate, it’s crucial to avoid returning to your home until local officials confirm that it’s safe and you have all the necessary supplies. If a hurricane or flooding damages your house, it should be inspected and cleaned thoroughly.
Immediate response after the hurricane passes
Nonprofit organizations provide relief during disasters on a global scale. Short-term disaster recovery efforts aim to reestablish essential services such as water, food, and medical care, which are essential for survival in the aftermath of a disaster. On the other hand, long-term recovery efforts focus on rebuilding community structures that the disaster has destroyed.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), long-term recovery can take up to five years. The focus is on creating stable structures to withstand severe weather events better. Donations to nonprofits like the American Red Cross and Salvation Army go toward:
- Establish safe shelters before the storm arrives.
- Stock supplies in preparation for hurricane victims.
- Hand out water, food, and emergency supplies to affected communities.
- Provide medical care for anyone in need.
The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster website has compiled a comprehensive list of trusted non-profit organizations working at hurricane disaster sites where you can donate to help survivors.
Crowdfunding for hurricane relief
Crowdfunding is a great way to help communities, families, or businesses affected by hurricanes. Many friends or loved ones start fundraisers on behalf of people they know who were affected. With GoFundMe, it’s easy and free for you to start a fundraiser on their behalf.
Things to know about crowdfunding for hurricane relief on GoFundMe
- You can safely invite a friend or loved one to receive the funds raised
- You can start a fundraiser for yourself or your family
- It’s free to start a fundraiser on GoFundMe
- You can fundraise for a charity or nonprofit providing hurricane relief
Tips for crowdfunding for hurricane relief
- Use the name of the family, building, or community in the fundraiser title. This will help people who are searching for your fundraiser.
- In the fundraiser description, describe how funds raised will be used. For example, funds might be used for temporary housing, essentials, and rebuilding.
- Ask other friends or family members to donate before posting the fundraiser widely on social media.
Other ways to help provide hurricane relief for victims
Recovering from a hurricane can be a long, arduous process, especially for those who aren’t prepared with a disaster survival kit or insurance. From days after the hurricane to months later, communities need help picking up the pieces. Here are some of the most effective ways you can help.
Donate to the hurricane relief fund
The Hurricane Relief Fund provides swift support (within a day or two) to individuals and communities who are directly impacted by a hurricane, supporting as many people as possible.
Donations to this fund are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by U.S. law.
Donate blood
By donating blood through the American Red Cross, you can save up to three lives. The entire donation process takes 45 minutes, but the actual blood donation is just 8-10 minutes. This simple but powerful gift can truly have a lasting impact. To find your nearest Red Cross, visit the Red Cross website.
Donate your time
If you’re near the affected area and want to help firsthand with relief and rebuilding efforts, there are numerous reputable organizations you can partner with. Nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity work to provide safe and reliable shelter for victims, while organizations like Airbnb sometimes offer a special way for hosts near an affected area to open their homes to those in need. If you need help finding charities to work with, take a look at our blog post “How to Find Charities Near me?”
Donate items
After a hurricane, many people are left with nothing but the clothes on their back. It can be a good idea to donate physical items to people to help them get back on their feet, however there are a few things to keep in mind before you do so.
Be aware that many people will be donating items and this can sometimes lead to survivors being overwhelmed by donations.
If you want to donate items, the best way to do so is to give them through a disaster relief organization or the government. They publish lists of needed items.
Successful hurricane relief fundraiser examples
Hurricanes caused widespread destruction in these communities, but these community members met the challenge of rebuilding their homes and lives with strength and resilience. GoFundMe helped ease the financial burden for them, making recovery and relief efforts that much easier.
Help Phyllis Yankey After Hurricane Beryl Destroyed Her Home
Phyliss is a 73-year-old woman who had just recently moved to Conroe, Texas and her life was changed forever when a tree fell on her home during Hurricane Beryl. Unfortunately her insurance company refused to pay out and she was left financially ruined and with no home. Her community has come together to help her get back on her feet. So far $14,000 has been raised.
Help the Castilleja family
More than $8,000 was raised for the Castilleja family after Hurricane Otis destroyed several of their family members’ homes and businesses. Hurricane Otis was the strongest storm on record to hit the pacific coast of Mexico and left many people homeless. The funds have been used to help those affected rebuild their lives.
Help hurricane victims rebuild
In the aftermath of a hurricane, rebuilding can be a difficult and costly process. Thankfully, there are many ways to help hurricane victims, whether it’s donating to them directly or starting a fundraiser to get others involved. If you’d like to make a difference for a family, business, or an entire community, sign up to create a fundraiser to raise hurricane relief funds on GoFundMe today.