Great idea Frank...
Just a warning to folks: just like with 9/11 and the Tsunami, there will be tons of people fundraising for the victims of this disaster. Please be cautious if you receive a phone call...never give your credit card or bank info to someone over the phone, and be alert for phishing scams using the disaster as a ploy. It's a sad world out there that there are people who will capitalize on other people's suffering, but unfortunately true.
Your church (if you are so affiliated) will likely be accepting donations, as will REPUTABLE organizations, like the Red Cross. I agree with Frank, please be as generous as you can.
Something else to consider: There are many more people from the New Orleans area that are going to be without homes for an extended period of time. (Today's estimate was nearly 4 months!) Many of these people are moving over to Texas, into another sports stadium, but that can't be a long term solution. If you are affiliated with a church or other "trustworthy" organization, (Union, Fraternity, Elks, etc.) you may want to see if they have a "branch" in that area that is looking to find temporary housing in other locations. You can then discuss the possibility of sponsoring a family or displaced person until they are able to return to their home, rather than having to live in a tent city, dorm ship or other shelter.
Also, if you are a person that collects hotel rewards points or airline miles, you can contact your member center to see if you can donate your rewards points for travel to a safer location or hotel stay for the victims. Some credit card companies that also offer rewards may be able to do this as well, and there is no "out of pocket" expense to donating points. (I don't think it is tax deductable tho.)  |