Updated: How to Help Those Affected by Harvey

Being so close to Texas, and with Louisiana potentially in Harvey's crosshairs this week, the devastation is all I can think about. After the historic flooding in Lafayette and Baton Rouge last August, it's even more heartbreaking to watch Texas go through the same thing. The emotions are still so raw for so many in South Louisiana who have recovered and are still recovering from last year.

We have a lot of family and friends in Texas and southwest Louisiana, and my heart goes out to everyone dealing with the unthinkable.

Via Busted Tees

No matter how near or far you are to Houston, southeast Texas, and southwest Louisiana, there are ways you can help the thousands of families affected, flooded and displaced.

Note: This list was last updated on September 1, 2017.

American Red Cross

Help people affected by Hurricane Harvey by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word HARVEY to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Austin Pets Alive!

The organization says it has transported over 235 animals to its shelter since Saturday morning. How can you lend a hand? Make a donation, foster or adopt a pet, or volunteer. Find out more here. (Via NBC News)

United Way of Greater Houston

Donate online here or text UWFLOOD to 41444.

United Way of Mid-South Jefferson County

The offices for this branch of United Way, covering Port Arthur, are currently closed due to the flooding, but you can donate online here.

United Way of Beaumont and North Jefferson County

Donate online to the Harvey Disaster Relief here.

United Way of Orange County (Texas)

Their offices are closed until further notice, but you can donate online here.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Baton Rouge

Broadmoor United Methodist Church is collecting supplies to send to Texas. Items can be purchased and taken to Broadmoor or purchased online and shipped to 10230 Mollylea Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70815. You can also purchase items through Amazon at and have items 2-day shipped.

Catholic Charities USA

Catholic Charities USA, a Catholic social service organization, is seeking donations to help those who have been affected by Harvey. The group has set up a website devoted to Harvey relief. You can also text CCUSADISASTER to 71777 to donate. (Via WBRZ)

Cajun Navy

The Cajun Navy is accepting donation of essential items (non-perishable food, water, baby items (already mixed formula, food, diapers), cleaning supplies, etc.) No clothing, toys, etc. Donations are being accepted at Bead Busters and Float Rentals, 2034 Bonin Rd, Youngsville. These items will be collected by the Cajun Navy and delivered to flood victims in Texas and wherever it is needed. (Via KATC)

Local Food Banks

The Houston Press has compiled a list of food banks in the affected area, including Houston Food Bank, Galveston County Food Bank, Corpus Christi Food Bank, Southeast Texas Food Bank, and more. They recommend contacting a food bank directly about their need and what you can do. (Via Vox)

Donate Blood

The American Red Cross, and Houston organizations Carter BloodCare and the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center are accepting blood donations.

United Way of Southwest Louisiana

(As of August 30, 2017) Volunteer at the shelter set up at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

Text HARVEY to 41444 to donate to this United Way chapter.

American Red Cross + Google

Donate to the Red Cross through this link, and Google will match all donations.

NOLA Pay It Forward Fund

Activated by the Mayor of New Orleans in partnership with the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the NOLA Pay It Forward Fund: Hurricane Harvey will provide resources for the early relief and rebuilding efforts of those communities impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Episcopal Relief & Development

Donate online here.

Acadian Companies Employee Relief Fund

A group very dear to me, many medics worked throughout the storm (and continue to work after the storm) to help others, even as they lost their own homes. Donate online here.