Here are some tips for helping the victims of wildfires which ravaged parts of Colorado Front Range between Denver & Boulder less than a month after Christmas.
Cash is the king.We may feel compelled to donate clothing, food and other supplies after seeing the destruction of homes or people who have lost everything. Aid organizations warn that donations like this can create logistical problems and increase costs. A financial donation can be used to fund the most urgent needs at that moment.
Know who you’re giving it to.After disasters, charity scams are common. Trusted, mainstream organizations are the best. If you are unsure about the group, check it at the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.
As damage assessments and the potential for casaulties continue in impacted areas, here’s how you can help:
Boulder County Wildfire Fund
In partnership with government and non-profit organizations, Community Foundation Boulder County is accepting monetary donations to support the community’s needs as they arise. Click here to donate.
American Red Cross
Visit the American Red Cross Colorado Chapter, or call 800-RED-CROSS to help those affected by the fires. Donations made to fire victims help the Red Cross respond to this disaster and help people recover. This and other disasters may also call for volunteers. Review the most urgently needed volunteer positions at redcross.org/volunteertoday.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a charity that provides emergency services to survivors and rescue personnel. Online: give.helpsalvationarmy.org/. By phone: 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769).
Go Fund Me
GoFundMe helps you connect to people in need. GoFundMe and the Weather Channel have teamed up to assist those in the path of natural disasters. To help you or someone you care about get through the Boulder fires, you can create a GoFundMe account to start the journey to recovery. You can request assistance or donate to someone who is in need.
Thepany’s primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives. This story does not necessarily reflect the position of IBM, our parent company.
Source: Weather.com
