I saw a photo in the paper of all these big cardboard boxes of clothing sitting on the beach and people sorting through them for items. Clothing was tossed here and there and strewn upon the ground. Got me thinking how big of a task it would be to organize something that this. How many of the actual clothing donated ends up in the hands of those needing it? How appropriate the clothing items in the boxes really are, ect. It would be so disappointing to be responsible for a clothing drive and then see it laying in the wet sand. Makes me want to load up a truck and drive there, go door to door trying to distribute it that way.

Schoolhouse, I wondered the same.

I made a direct contribution to a shelter in AC through a friend who is personally taking it to them. I wanted to make sure it was received in someones hands. It consisted of new assorted Costco towels, packages of soaps, toothpastes, winter coats, pillows and a blanket. I am sure they are getting flooded with various clothing items which many need but some have families not effected and will be taken care of through them.

My employer is matching our Red Cross contributions up to 200K.

mtnrdredux
I meant to thank you for posting that information. I'm sure people feel they want to do something and don't know what is needed.

Folks,

I have voiced the same misgivings, in a thread a few days ago.

but if you read the whole email, they are taking a caravan there Saturday morning, and also looking for sorting and clean up help

they're working with a local agency who gave them the list

My gosh! I have been following this from Canada and have been touched by the kindness and the strength of the people. I am hoping there is more fundraising too. Thank you for updating and keeping people aware of what is needed. I just can't imagine what some of these people are going through!

Hopefully no one will mind me also adding "remember the displaced animals". Several of the rescue places have taken in large numbers of pets and could use help. Old blankets, quilts, towels, anything that can be bedding. Dog food, adult & puppy. Cat foot etc.