On Aug. 29, category 4 Hurricane Ida made landfall in Louisiana. In a single day, over a million people across the state lost power. Children’s Hospital New Orleans is relying on backup power as of Aug. 30, and Louisiana State Police have told residents that if they’re stranded, it may take a long time for help to reach them. Even though the storm’s impact is yet to be fully assessed, there are many local community organizations helping with Hurricane Ida relief efforts.
Already-existing grassroots collectives led by people who live in impacted areas can often be the most effective places to donate. When groups have pre-established connections with their local communities, it can be more immediately helpful for them to dig right in and assist with aspects of community healing that non-local organizations might be unaware of. Whether that means accepting guidance about offering disaster relief assistance from people who have survived catastrophes before or donating directly to community groups, taking the lead from those who are on the ground is important.
If you’re looking for hurricane safety information to share on your social media or have a few dollars to donate to Ida relief efforts, check out these five ways to help people impacted by Hurricane Ida.