Hurricane Harvey is being called one of the costliest storms in U.S. history. Its catastrophic devastation has caused over one million people to evacuate their homes in Texas. FEMA officials said that about 325,000 people have already sought federal emergency aid. First responders are continuing to conduct block-by-block searches, looking for anyone alive or dead. The current death toll has risen to 60.
First responders and their families are also suffering in Hurricane Harvey’s wake. Among the estimated 30,000 to 40,000 homes destroyed in the Houston area, are homes belonging to the very same first responders saving others. The State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas reported that many firefighters suffered major losses in the disaster. It’s estimated that 80 percent of firefighters in one department have lost their homes.
Many of these first responders are exhausted after working non-stop during search and rescue efforts, as captured in this viral photo of a deputy who took some much-needed rest after rescuing those trapped by rising waters. Here are some ways to directly support first responders affected by Hurricane Harvey.
#1 Acadian Employee Emergency Relief Fund
Acadian Ambulance, headquartered in Lafayette, Louisiana, created a relief fund to provide immediate financial assistance to Acadian Ambulance employees who are experiencing financial hardships resulting from Hurricane Harvey. Click here to make a contribution and help the agency’s team members in Texas.
#2 International Association of Fire Fighters Foundation Disaster Relief Fund
You can help IAFF members working during Hurricane Harvey through the IAFF Disaster Relief Fund. You candonate here – the IAFF Disaster Relief Fund is aiming to raise $10,000. The fund has currently raised over $3,500.
#3 National Volunteer Fire Council Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund
Volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel whose homes have been impacted as a result of Hurricane Harvey can apply for a NVFC stipend to assist with basic needs in the aftermath of the storm. Learn more here.
#4 State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas Hurricane Harvey Relief
By donating here, you can help the fire departments in the impacted area – 78 percent of which are volunteer – recover financially and continue to help those in need. All proceeds will go toward an immediate relief fund. The Texas Fire Marshal’s Office is also requesting that any unused firefighter or EMS T-shirts be donated so they can be distributed specifically to firefighters, paramedics and their families in need.
#5 Fraternal Order of Police Foundation Disaster Relief
The FOP Foundation is helping officers who have been displaced by Hurricane Harvey. You can make a one-time donation or can contribute monthly. For more information, click here.
#6 Assist the Officer Foundation
Assist the Officer is accepting donations to aid Houston-area officers who have been affected by Hurricane Harvey. You can donate online or send checks to: 1600 State Street in Houston, Texas, 77007.
#7 Los Angeles Protective League Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund
For one week, the LAPPL will be matching all donations (up to $5,000) made to the Assist the Officer Foundation. Donate by Sept. 6 and type “LAPD” in the special instructions box. The LAPPL will double the impact of your generous donation. Learn more here.
#8 Police Wives of America Relief Fund
Police Wives of America is gathering drinks, snacks and toiletries to send to first responders in Houston. You can donate here – 100 percent of all proceeds will go to first responders affected by the storm.
#9 Houston Police Officers Union
The Houston Police Officers’ Union sent out an appeal asking that donations be sent to Assist the Officer, Inc., a 501(C)3 charity established 30 years ago in Houston, which provides aid to law enforcement during disasters.
You can make a donation online here, or mail a check to: Assist the Officer, FBO Harvey Relief, 1600 State Street, Houston, Texas 77007.
Local Houston Charities
There are hundreds of Houston-area charities and organizations, including the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund, Houston SPCA,Houston Humane Society, Houston Food Bank, Food Bank of Corpus Christi and the San Antonio Humane Society.
As with any organization or charity, be sure to check its legitimacy. Some organizations claim to be sending 100 percent of their funds to Hurricane Harvey victims, but may not be entirely truthful. Charity Navigator compiled a list of reputable organizations providing assistance to those affected by Hurricane Harvey. This list can also help you determine if a charity or organization is legitimate.
