TEXTING TO GIVE?
Charities have to wait for phone companies to release the money. It’s quicker if you go to the charity’s website and donate directly.

TIMING
Donations often pour in immediately after disaster strikes. Consider a recurring donation or donating every two weeks.

CONSIDER SPECIAL NEEDS
Consider charities that focus on vulnerable populations, such as seniors, the disabled, children, and even pets.

DESIGNATE YOUR FUNDS TO THE DISASTER
If you do choose to donate to a national organization like the Red Cross or Americorps, be sure to label your donations as being for Hurricane Harvey.

VERIFY CHARITIES
When donating to smaller charities, it pays to do your research. Search the charity’s name with the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, or GuideStar to see how much of its money actually goes towards helping victims. And be suspicious of funds that sprang up shortly after the natural disaster.