How You Can Help Those Braving Sandy’s Storm on the East Coast: Twin Cities Give Back

More than 60 million people will feel some sort of direct impact from Hurricane Sandy and the other storm systems swirling in the Northeastern United States.
Nationwide, however, the “Frankenstorm” impact is spreading, from the shutdown of Wall Street today to canceled travel plans all around the country.

According to AccuWeather.com CEO Barry Myers, "Sandy is a hurricane wrapped in a winter storm."

Many Twin Cities residents often look at their computer screen or television and wonder, “What can I do to help?” Such is our nature.
Here are a few ideas.  This is a developing list.

Red Cross
The Red Cross has started a preventative campaign in areas of the Northeast, using SMS and sound trucks to provide early warning messages. Emergency response teams are also in place, ready to hand out relief supplies for up to 11,000 families. In the United States, the Red Cross has released an app that allows users to track the impending storm, receive weather alerts, directions to the nearest shelter, tools like a flashlight, strobe light, alarm, and even a one-touch “I’m Safe” button that uses social media to let family and friends know you’re safe

Twin Cities residents can support those efforts by donating, locally, to the Red Cross.

The majority of Twin Cities residents can make donations locally via the Twin Cities Chapter.

In Wright County, donations can work locally with the Central Minnesota Chapter.

The eastern areas of Stillwater, Hudson and communities along the St. Croix River can use the St. Croix Valley chapter.

The Salvation Army
Residents can donate by credit card at thesalarmy.org or by calling 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769).

Save The Children
Save The Children provides child-friendly space kits, including diapers and hygiene items. The organization also maintains a U.S. Emergencies Fund, that allow for disaster planning, emergency preparedness, response and recovery work and psychological support. Save the Children says it's committed to the same level of support for the impending storm. Learn more here.

Catholic Charities
The national page is accepting pledges delivered via local churches and shelters. Visit the website here.