A Time of Need

Last week, Hurricane Katrina devastated our nation, leaving millions without shelter, food, electricity, or hope. Whatever your beliefs about the government’s reaction to the crisis or the rampant crime and looting occurring, the fact remains that countless citizens of the Gulf Region need our assistance. Here are several ways you can help:

Short on Time? Donate directly to the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org. All you need is a credit card and about 2 minutes time, and donations of any monetary amount are welcome.

Short on Storage Space? Clean out your closet or garage and donate gently used clothing, household goods, and furniture to your local Goodwill Industries donation center. Your trash is often someone else’s treasure, and Goodwill will use the sales profits of the goods to help citizens in the Gulf region resume their jobs, or find new ones, as well as to rebuild the employment and career programs provided by agencies in the area.

Short on Cash? Throw a “benefit” at your place on Friday night! Instead of spending your extra cash on martinis at overpriced restaurants, buy some wine, and ask your guests to bring an appetizer and a $10 donation. Give the proceeds to an organization of your choice—Network for Good lists several options. Many organizations let you donate in honor of someone, so thank your friends for their generosity by listing them on your donation form.