Strongly consider donating cash instead of clothing or food. According to the Center for International Disasters:
- Professional relief agencies use monetary contributions to purchase exactly and specifically what the disaster victims need.
- Money is easy to transport. Moving a container of donated goods can cost more than the value of the items.
- Money used to purchase available items local to the disaster offers multiple advantages.
- Stimulates local economies
- Provides employment and generates cash flow
- Provides confidence and a sense of normalcy as the area recovers
- Does not compete with goods from the local market
- Does not entail transportation/shipping costs
A quick search on the Internet results in many organizations committed to helping the victims of the storm. One option to consider is the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund through NC Governor Cooper’s office.
Unfortunately, people need to be on the lookout for relief effort scams. Visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website or call JCC Police at 757-253-1800 if you have questions about the validity of a request.
Media Contact:
Renee Dallman, Public Information Officer
757-253-6605; renee.dallman@jamescitycountyva.gov