How to help storm victims from the Society of Human Resource Management

Employees all over the country will be wondering how they can help the storm victims. Here are some ideas SHRM Online has compiled from reporting on previous storms and suggestions offered by organizations in Houston:

• Big companies have already pledged millions. Among them, Google has promised to match employee donations. Matching employee donations helps workers take part in their company’s corporate social responsibility pledges.
• Nearly five years ago, as the East Coast cleaned up from Hurricane Sandy’s damage, companies turned to Fundly.com to help employees pool their money and to match donations.
• Employee relief funds—where workers and their company can donate money to hurricane victims in their workplaces—are another a popular way for co-workers to help one another, said Doug Stockham in 2012, then managing consultant for the Emergency Assistance Foundation Inc. in the West Palm Beach, Fla.
• The American Red Cross has made it easy for individuals to donate small amounts that add up to big relief. Text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10. Charges will appear on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your prepaid balance. Companies can become corporate partners with the Red Cross, as well.
• Food banks may bear the brunt of relief efforts. We learned during Hurricane Katrina that it may be better to donate money instead of supplies, as delivery trucks may not be able to reach storm-damaged areas. Feeding Texas is a network of the state’s food banks.
• Diapers are not an item that disaster relief organizations often supply. You can pay for diapers for babies, seniors and others who need them via Texas Diaper Bank.
• Does your company have a special interest in animals? Consider donations to Austin Pets Alive!, which has already taken in more than 200 animals left homeless by the storm.