Volunteer & donate

The best way to help after a disaster is to sign up with an established organization and wait to be assigned instead of showing up on your own, according to FEMA. Cash donations to trusted relief groups are usually the most flexible and effective, and you should be wary of unsolicited calls and texts asking for money.

Updated Oct. 9, 2026, 10 p.m. EDT · Sources linked throughout

Information may be delayed or incomplete. Always verify with official sources and follow local officials.

Nationwide

• Volunteer with the Red CrossRed Cross
• Give bloodRed Cross
• National VOADDirectory of established relief groups · National VOAD

Give to groups you know. Skip crowdfunding links from strangers.

Find your state’s page · All help topics