How To Help After Hurricane Milton

Watching an unfolding disaster can often be heartbreaking for those outside of it, and absolutely devastating for anyone living through it.

Here’s how you can help victims of Hurricane Milton as the full impacts of the storm become clear in the coming days.

Remember That Cash Is King

While donations of clothing, food and bottled water inevitably rush in, aid organizations say they can create logistical nightmares. A financial contribution to a reputable organization, on the other hand, can be funneled to wherever and whatever need is greatest.

Know Who You’re Giving To

Charity scams abound amid devastating weather events and other disasters. Just a few minutes of research can make sure you’re giving to a trusted organization. Check Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance, the Charity Navigator, Charity Watch or GuideStar for the best information.

A Short List Of Where To Donate

A​merican Red Cross

As Hurricane Milton made landfall, the American Red Cross deployed more than 1,000 trained disaster workers and assisted thousands of people in shelters. Their work will continue through cleanup and recovery. You can also make a significant impact as a future Red Cross volunteer or by signing up to give blood.

U​nited Way

The United Way assists in disaster-related evacuations, shelters, food/clothing distributions, volunteer opportunities and other resources. You can make monetary contributions to the national or local chapters.

S​alvation Army

The Salvation Army operates mobile feeding units, emergency disaster warehouses and other relief efforts.

CARE is providing emergency cash assistance to help families in underserved communities who have been affected by both Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The assistance aims to address their most urgent needs such as food, water, emergency housing and medication.

A​mericares

A​mericares has set up a donation page in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This organization focuses on urgent medical needs in the aftermath of a disaster, as well as long-term recovery projects.

Florida Disaster Fund

The Florida Disaster Fund is the state of Florida’s official private fundraiser for disaster relief. The fund provides financial assistance to communities as they respond to and recover from emergencies or disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

U​nited Way of Florida

T​he United Way of Florida's Disaster Recovery Fund will be directed to the most impacted communities in Florida.

F​eeding America

Feeding America has already delivered more than 100 truckloads of food, water and relief supplies to the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Helene and will continue to support those affected by Hurricane Milton. Taylor Swift, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have recently donated to Feeding America's disaster relief fund.

H​elp For Pets And Shelters

S​everal groups are assisting with providing food and supplies for pets and livestock, as well evacuating animals and taking them to safer locations. They include: The Humane Society,The Bissell Pet Foundation, as well as your local animal welfare groups and shelters.