Hurricane Irma and Disney – How You Can Help
We posted earlier today about what actually happened at Walt Disney World during Hurricane Irma. Now, we’ll share how you, as a Disney fan, can help!
While Florida might be the destination of your dreams, with easy access to numerous white-sandy beaches, nearly year-round sunshine and of course, offering the gateway to your imagination at the happiest place on Earth – it’s also a prime area along the hurricane coastline. In fact, it’s estimated that since 1851, Florida has experienced 36 hurricanes, with 10 having a major, detrimental impact. Of all the states, the one nicknamed sunshine takes the brunt of the devastation, having 10 times more than any other region. In the dust of Hurricane Irma, the Florida Keys suffered much damage, with flooding, high winds, tornado warnings and evacuations. And though Irma has came and gone, this part of America is still at risk through the end of the month for another storm.
If your annual travel schedule and paid-time-off is allocated to a visit to Walt Disney World, it’s important to also contribute to the state that empower your children’s imagination and gives you and your partner a break from your day-to-day lives. As this section of the country recovers – and prepares – here’s what you and your family can do to help those in need.
Send a Text Message
If you have the funds available to simply give money and want an easy way to donate, you can simply text Hand in Hand. While originally created for Hurricane Harvey, this organization has expanded to include Hurricane Irma and those in Florida, as well. The kickoff began with a telethon hosted by several celebrities on September 12, but donation opportunities remain open.
To participate, you can text GIVE to 80077, resulting in an additional $25 to your statement for your next phone bill. Everything collected will be donated to a slew of various charities, including Feeding Florida, Feeding Texas, Habitat for Humanity, Save the Children, the ASPCA, the United Way and countless others.
Donate to the American Red Cross
With a century’s worth of experience in disaster relief, it’s the American Red Cross that’s called in after natural disruptions, aiding in clean-up, creating shelters and distributing supplies to those impacted. Your donation is a tax write-off, and also will go a long way to benefit families, rebuild homes and give basic necessities to people who lost everything in a single storm.
Buy Diapers For Miami Families
If you’re a parent, you likely remember being astounded by the vast amount of diapers your infant went through in 24 hours. Now, imagine if you brought your newborn home, only to evacuate and lose that nursery (and all of the well-stocked supplies) thanks to a hurricane. Many families in Miami are struggling to find access to the many needs of their children, from formula and clothing to diapers. Currently, the Miami Diaper Bank is accepting monetary donations to put nappies in the hands of moms and dads. All proceeds will be spread across South Florida.
Open Up Your Home
There’s nothing more frightening than being homeless, especially if you are charged with the duty of caring for your children, your aging parents or another person. With many families displaced through Florida after their homes were destroyed, AirBNB came up for a free way for neighbors to assist those impacted. By listing your home on their site, you invite hurricane victims to live with you or in your rental property until they’re back on their feet or have a place to go. To date, more than 200 households have joined this movement.