How To Donate From Maine to Hurricane Relief Efforts

Disaster relief experts say the best (and easiest) way to help is through financial donations, just make sure the site is reputable.

Financial Donations Can Help Fund Everything From Water to Shelters

Hurricanes Helene and Milton have left trails of devastation in their wakes, so now the relief efforts get underway, restoring power, rebuilding communities, and providing survivors with the basic necessities. While many of us may think the way to help is to truck a bunch of donations to the affected areas, disaster relief experts with the American Red Cross have told me, over the years, that it's much more effective to make financial donations. Unless you have contacts in the area, like the Mansion Church in Bangor that is currently on their way with a truckload of donations to a church in North Carolina, it's better to let the relief agencies use your funds in the best way possible.

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Relief Agencies, from the Red Cross to the Humane Society, Can Use Your Help

We've researched some of the agencies with boots on the ground, helping in the relief efforts, and found the best ways for you to donate. Here are a few, starting with our friends at the American Red Cross:

• American Red Cross Disaster Relief Services
• Salvation Army
• Americares
• United States Humane Society

Charity Navigator can help you find organizations that are participating in relief efforts, as well.

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It Doesn't Have to Be A Lot of Money, Every Little Bit Helps

Don't hesitate to give that $5 or $10 donation, even if you think it won't help. There's something like 1.3 million people in Maine, so if each person gave $5, $10, or $100, that's going to, collectively, make a huge impact.

Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by Helene and Milton, including the rescue workers, utility crews, and everyone who's working to rebuild.