Hurricane Donation Info

On the whole, monetary donations are the best as the charities on the ground generally know what is needed in the disaster area. It is very important to which charities are reputable which is the reason for this post.

There are two major organizations that represent or rate charities. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD). NVOAD is a membership group of charities that must meet high standards for membership. The other important organization is Charity Navigator. Charity Navigator independently rates charities on a points basis. Charities listed by either group are reputable. There are, of course, very good local organizations that you may want to consider that may not be listed with these groups.

Not to be forgotten is the Red Cross which is never a bad choice. And, while not a major need related to our recent hurricanes, you should always consider donating blood. Only 3% of people ever donate blood but a lot more us will need blood than that over time. To find where to donate blood, visit this site and enter your Zip Code. In Charlottesville, the main blood donation center is located in the Albemarle Square Shopping Center next door to the “A Taste of China” restaurant and near the “ACAC” Fitness Center.