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Post by KikiPea on Aug 29, 2017 13:44:20 GMT
If you were purchasing things to donate, what would be the most needed items? I know the grocery store shelves were empty, soI'm sure they could use a lot.
Diapers? Formula? Water? Gatorade?
Picking up some stuff, today, and want to get things that could be the most beneficial.
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Post by Merge on Aug 29, 2017 13:49:35 GMT
Unless you plan to drive down here to give to someone specifically, it seems most are asking for monetary donations. There's a comprehensive listing of local organizations here: Texas TribuneI know the convention center has said they don't need any more clothes except some in plus/large sizes. If that holds true through today, I plan to take a bag of plus-size stuff over to the convention center later. I remember when Houston was housing Katrina refugees, they got way more clothing donations than they could use and it became a burden to get rid of them all. |
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Post by JustCallMeMommy on Aug 29, 2017 13:55:12 GMT
I would concentrate on the "needs" that aren't essential life needs, because in my experience, the true NEEDS will be met quickly by large organizations. Truck fulls of water and ice will be set up in neighborhoods, and if the Red Cross trucks aren't already running meals, they will be soon.
A friend who helped with the Louisiana floods last year posted this list:
- do not send clothes
- purchase a plastic storage tub and fill with what you feel comfortable with. But tubs will be in high demand and short supply. So even just donating a tub will be huge!
-hit up dollar tree - lots of items there.
-gloves
-brooms
-bleach
-pine sol
-small scrub brushes
-industrial strength garbage bags
-sharpies
-duck tape
-underwear
-socks
-diapers
-formula
-pacifiers
-feminine products
-first aide products
-Tylenol/Advil
-paper towels
-toilet paper
-paper goods
-tooth brushes
-tooth paste
-mops
-detergent
-new pillows
-windex
-box cutters with blades for sheet rock
-dust pans
-masks
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Post by Darcy Collins on Aug 29, 2017 14:16:10 GMT
I think it's wonderful how generous people are - as someone who's spent a lot of time with the logistics of charitable organizations, I highly encourage cash donations versus going to the store and purchasing items. It is much, much more efficient. With a disaster of this magnitude, transporting, sorting and dealing with donations can become a massive burden.
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Post by monklady123 on Aug 29, 2017 14:19:07 GMT
IF you have a guaranteed way of getting it there then ask first. I know more local churches -- more local than say our churches here in Virginia -- are doing up "kits" at the request of the coordinators in Houston. Inside one of those large "drum" type bins (the round ones like you can buy plaster in) they're packing bleach, rubber gloves, scrub brushes, large sponges, garbage bags, etc. Also toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand lotion, etc. And at the very top, carefully wrapped in plastic, some hard candy just because. Some people wanted chocolate but they were afraid it would melt so settled on hard candy.
Otherwise, if you're farther away, or not connected to a group who you KNOW FOR SURE has a way to get stuff there, then donate money. That's the best thing because then the agencies are not inundated with "stuff" and they can buy exactly what they need. And maybe buy it from local business too. Donate to the Red Cross, or a relief agency with your religious denomination. Mine went to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA).
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Post by scraphollie27 on Aug 29, 2017 14:20:58 GMT
Cash
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Post by workingclassdog on Aug 29, 2017 14:22:30 GMT
Our school is doing a donation day on Friday.. Kids can wear jeans if they donate a $1...I plan on sending more than a dollar but my donation will go through them. I do remember reading problems with clothing is that so much is donated it ended up being so much basically that they had to throw the clothing away.. ended up in piles and no one to take charge.. the clothes ended up rotting..  |
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Post by KikiPea on Aug 29, 2017 14:23:04 GMT
I think it's wonderful how generous people are - as someone who's spent a lot of time with the logistics of charitable organizations, I highly encourage cash donations versus going to the store and purchasing items. It is much, much more efficient. With a disaster of this magnitude, transporting, sorting and dealing with donations can become a massive burden. We know several convoys headed that way, so transporting/sorting is not an issue. |
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Post by KikiPea on Aug 29, 2017 14:25:04 GMT
IF you have a guaranteed way of getting it there then ask first. I know more local churches -- more local than say our churches here in Virginia -- are doing up "kits" at the request of the coordinators in Houston. Inside one of those large "drum" type bins (the round ones like you can buy plaster in) they're packing bleach, rubber gloves, scrub brushes, large sponges, garbage bags, etc. Also toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand lotion, etc. And at the very top, carefully wrapped in plastic, some hard candy just because. Some people wanted chocolate but they were afraid it would melt so settled on hard candy. Otherwise, if you're farther away, or not connected to a group who you KNOW FOR SURE has a way to get stuff there, then donate money. That's the best thing because then the agencies are not inundated with "stuff" and they can buy exactly what they need. And maybe buy it from local business too. Donate to the Red Cross, or a relief agency with your religious denomination. Mine went to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA). Thanks! We actually know at least a couple of convoys headed that way. |
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Post by padresfan619 on Aug 29, 2017 14:44:47 GMT
I would skip buying stuff and just send money. If you really don't want to send money, send non-perishable food and first aid supplies.
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Post by agengr2004 on Aug 29, 2017 14:45:13 GMT
IF you have a guaranteed way of getting it there then ask first. I know more local churches -- more local than say our churches here in Virginia -- are doing up "kits" at the request of the coordinators in Houston. Inside one of those large "drum" type bins (the round ones like you can buy plaster in) they're packing bleach, rubber gloves, scrub brushes, large sponges, garbage bags, etc. Also toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand lotion, etc. And at the very top, carefully wrapped in plastic, some hard candy just because. Some people wanted chocolate but they were afraid it would melt so settled on hard candy. Otherwise, if you're farther away, or not connected to a group who you KNOW FOR SURE has a way to get stuff there, then donate money. That's the best thing because then the agencies are not inundated with "stuff" and they can buy exactly what they need. And maybe buy it from local business too. Donate to the Red Cross, or a relief agency with your religious denomination. Mine went to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA). Thanks! We actually know at least a couple of convoys headed that way. I heard this morning that they need diapers and formula, water, toiletries, etc. |
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Post by monklady123 on Aug 29, 2017 14:46:39 GMT
IF you have a guaranteed way of getting it there then ask first. I know more local churches -- more local than say our churches here in Virginia -- are doing up "kits" at the request of the coordinators in Houston. Inside one of those large "drum" type bins (the round ones like you can buy plaster in) they're packing bleach, rubber gloves, scrub brushes, large sponges, garbage bags, etc. Also toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand lotion, etc. And at the very top, carefully wrapped in plastic, some hard candy just because. Some people wanted chocolate but they were afraid it would melt so settled on hard candy. Otherwise, if you're farther away, or not connected to a group who you KNOW FOR SURE has a way to get stuff there, then donate money. That's the best thing because then the agencies are not inundated with "stuff" and they can buy exactly what they need. And maybe buy it from local business too. Donate to the Red Cross, or a relief agency with your religious denomination. Mine went to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA). Thanks! We actually know at least a couple of convoys headed that way. In that case I'd say you should ask whoever is in charge of receiving that convoy. I mean, I'm assuming they're not just heading down there on their own so someone on the other end should know what they need most. |
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Post by aleighl55 on Aug 29, 2017 15:00:26 GMT
I'm in Houston and all reports are saying that the shelters have what they need for evacuees right now. What they will need is cleanup efforts later, after the rain stops and the floodwaters recede. Every donation of food, formula, diapers, and clothing has to be sorted by type, size, etc and it's so time consuming that a lot will just go to waste.
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Post by *KAS* on Aug 29, 2017 15:03:09 GMT
I think it's wonderful how generous people are - as someone who's spent a lot of time with the logistics of charitable organizations, I highly encourage cash donations versus going to the store and purchasing items. It is much, much more efficient. With a disaster of this magnitude, transporting, sorting and dealing with donations can become a massive burden. I agree. Unless you know of somebody / someplace that is looking for specific donations, cash is certainly best. I volunteered in Gatlinburg this past winter after the fires, and I spent a few days in a warehouse - there were multiple warehouses set up that were just collecting donations but the amount of stuff that was donated was seriously mind blowing. It was like a gem when you would try to fulfill an order and you'd find nice, clean, new clothing and gently worn clothing that you could package up. It was like finding a needle in a haystack because so much of what was donated was just junk. That said, plus size clothing was always in demand, so if you can find a group that is specifically looking, that would be great and very much appreciated I'm sure! And we were always short on cleaning supplies, toilet paper, paper towels, bleach, cleaner, gloves, buckets, etc. The manpower and logistics that went into separating the donations would just blow your mind. They were so appreciative of everyone's generosity, but it was overwhelming! |
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Post by bigbundt on Aug 29, 2017 15:04:42 GMT
Donate money, preferably to local organizations if possible. After hearing friends and family's personal interactions with the Red Cross's "operations" after Katrina and the flooding over the years (LA and SC) I will never donate to them again for natural disaster recovery. I donated to the Texas Diaper Bank a few days ago but it looks like their site might be down right now. Stuff is great but people donate so.much that it takes valuable manpower to go through it that is better spent in other areas. A friend of a friend posted this. This org goes in and feeds the first responders and people volunteering rescue and I believe they are already in Houston.  |
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Peamac
Pearl Clutcher
Refupea # 418
Posts: 4,218 
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Post by Peamac on Aug 29, 2017 15:10:02 GMT
Feminine products- tampons, pads Deodorant Toothpaste Baby wipes/flushable wipes (damp things to clean hands, etc with) Toilet paper Shampoo Soap ETA- I know some of the people involved in Operation Renewed Hope - they've been helping with disasters for many years, and are a 501(c)(3). |
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Post by Darcy Collins on Aug 29, 2017 15:16:27 GMT
Don't forget food on these lists! I donated cash to Feeding Texas they're working with the local foodbanks: www.feedingtexas.org/ You can also give directly to Galveston, Houston and the other local food banks. The shelters obviously need food, but there will also be a long term need for food after the water recedes as people work on recovery. |
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anniebygaslight
Drama Llama
I'd love a cup of tea. #1966
Posts: 7,394
Location: Third Rock from the sun.
Jun 28, 2014 14:08:19 GMT
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Post by anniebygaslight on Aug 29, 2017 15:37:15 GMT
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used2scrap
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,036
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Post by used2scrap on Aug 29, 2017 15:48:10 GMT
I saw a food bank in Texas yesterday on Facebook asking for donations, and it only took a handful of comments before someone was asking to drop off expired food. People want to give generously, but we really need to think through giving what is needed vs what makes the giver feel good. |
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Post by cadoodlebug on Aug 29, 2017 15:49:55 GMT
As others have mentioned, cash is best. And be sure to find out if your company matches funds! We just got an email this morning saying that ours is matching!
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peppermintpatty
Pearl Clutcher
Refupea #1345
Posts: 3,854
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Post by peppermintpatty on Aug 29, 2017 15:53:44 GMT
Don't forget about the pets! I made a couple of donations this morning to local shelters and the Houston Humane society.
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Post by genny on Aug 29, 2017 16:12:52 GMT
A group of local businesses here is banding together to get donations and leaving on Thursday with supplies, trucks, boats, other equipment. They are going to help with the relief effort in any way that they can find to do so. A couple of my customers and my accountant are among those leading the effort.
I literally just got off the phone with one of my customers who needs something before they leave. She told me that they have been looking for a place to rent for their crew with a plan to stay for 10-20 days at least. The cheapest hotel room they got a quote on was $11,000 for 20 days! Isn't that price gouging? Isn't that illegal?
Anyway, to answer OP's question - they are asking for donations of bottled water, flash lights, batteries, tooth paste and tooth brushes, diapers wipes and formula.
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Post by ktdoesntscrap on Aug 29, 2017 16:28:42 GMT
Last year I sent via Amazon Prime a bunch of rubbermaid totes to some folks in LA.
I had an address and just sent a couple dozen. They got them much quicker than waiting for more to come to the stores and were very appreciative.
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Post by Skellinton on Aug 29, 2017 16:46:32 GMT
For those wanting to donate to the animal shelters and in case no kill is important to you, Houston . Humane Society is not a no kill and doesn't have a great reputation in that regard, Austin Pets Alive is a no kill and has a very good reputation- www.austinpetsalive.orgAlso www.friends4life.org/about/ Friends For Life is another one with a good reputation that is trying to help people care for their pets as well. Both of the ones I linked have Gold ratings on Guide Watch, Houston Humane has silver. |
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Post by revirdsuba99 on Aug 29, 2017 17:28:25 GMT
For those wanting to donate to the animal shelters and in case no kill is important to you, Houston . Humane Society is not a no kill and doesn't have a great reputation in that regard, Austin Pets Alive is a no kill and has a very good reputation- www.austinpetsalive.orgAlso www.friends4life.org/about/ Friends For Life is another one with a good reputation that is trying to help people care for their pets as well. Both of the ones I linked have Gold ratings on Guide Watch, Houston Humane has silver. They both take Paypal. |
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quiltz
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,714
Location: CANADA
Jun 29, 2014 16:13:28 GMT
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Post by quiltz on Aug 29, 2017 17:34:09 GMT
Cash is the best, as many organizations get discounts due to their high purchases.
I donated to MCC Disaster Fund as they are the 'clean up' people.
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Post by LilyRose on Aug 29, 2017 17:46:10 GMT
Don't forget about the pets! I made a couple of donations this morning to local shelters and the Houston Humane society. Which local shelters? I'm feeling moved to donate to aid in animal rescue/care, but I don't know the local reputable groups in addition to Hoyston Humane Society. |
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Post by LilyRose on Aug 29, 2017 17:47:58 GMT
For those wanting to donate to the animal shelters and in case no kill is important to you, Houston . Humane Society is not a no kill and doesn't have a great reputation in that regard, Austin Pets Alive is a no kill and has a very good reputation- www.austinpetsalive.orgAlso www.friends4life.org/about/ Friends For Life is another one with a good reputation that is trying to help people care for their pets as well. Both of the ones I linked have Gold ratings on Guide Watch, Houston Humane has silver. Should have read all the comments before asking my question. Thanks for the info. |
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AmeliaBloomer
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,842
Location: USA
Jun 26, 2014 5:01:45 GMT
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Post by AmeliaBloomer on Aug 29, 2017 17:50:58 GMT
I heard this morning that they need diapers and formula [snip]. I posted this a couple days ago: "We're also donating $$ to the Texas Diaper Bank. They provide diapers and baby supplies to babies, and diapers and incontinence supplies to seniors and disabled children/adults. From what I read, these supplies are not routinely included in the big relief organization distributions. Sounds like an initiative a lot of RefuPeas could get behind. Good campaign for kids to understand, too." (In addition to the Red Cross, I like to direct cash to a specific goal/mission.) |
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Post by **GypsyGirl** on Aug 29, 2017 17:51:40 GMT
CAPS (Citzens for Animal Protection) is a great shelter located in West Houston near Katy. Our last 2 cats were CAPS kitties. I am sure they will be having a large influx due to their proximity to the reservoirs that are being released. SPCA Houston is another good shelter. They also take in farm animals (horses, etc), which is something many of the other shelters are not able to do. MAM (Memorial Area MInistries) is another excellent local charity to consider. They are very highly rated by Charity Navigator. These are all local organizations that I have personal knowledge/experience with and support. Anyone wanting to donate directly to the community should consider these. I've linked their websites so that you can read more about their missions.
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Refupea #1142
