Louisiana Floods 2016: What You Can Do To Help Right Now

The Louisiana Floods of 2016 have been called the worst U.S. natural disaster since Superstorm Sandy back in 2012. Flood waters are still rising in some parts of Southwestern Louisiana and many are complaining at the lack of a relief effort. Truth be told, there hasn’t been much coverage of this current disaster and with estimates of more than 40,000 homes damaged, thousands of people and pets have been displaced. Some may be wondering what they can do to help bring relief to flood victims and here are a few things that you can do to help right now.

News coverage of the Louisiana Floods has been sparse, but the devastation to many homes in the state is rivaling that of Hurricane Katrina. It was estimated that more than 4 trillion gallons of water dumped down on the region over the course of just two days.

Many flood victims remain at shelters and efforts to rehome those who are affected have been complicated. According to FEMA, one of the obstacles slowing down their relief efforts is a lack of housing. At least 30,000 people have been rescued from the rising flood water by both the National Guard and by locals who have been referred to as the “Cajun Army.”

“There’s not that much that wasn’t damaged in some of these parishes,” FEMA administrator Craig Fugate told NPR.

There are a lot of people who are concerned about flood victims in Southern Louisiana and may wish to lend a hand during the devastating Louisiana floods of 2016. Here are a few ideas for things that can be done right now.

The American Red Cross is already helping Lousiana flood victims by providing shelters, meals, and even medical assistance. Anyone, anywhere can donate to the American Red Cross and help in the relief effort. A $10 donation can be made by texting the word “LAFLOODS” to 90999 from a cell phone. The charge will automatically be applied to the cellular bill and money raised will aid flood victims. Donations can also be made in any amount through the ARC website

Louisiana Strong is also on the ground in Southern Louisiana, providing relief to flood victims. Their aim is to provide toiletries and basic health items to those in need. By donating to their current GoFundMe campaign, Louisiana Strong will be purchasing and distributing things such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, and other essentials to those who have suffered through several days of flooding and damage to their homes.

Another way you can help Louisiana flood victims right now would be through the United Way of Southeast Louisiana. Donations can be made through their website. There are also regional drop offs set up near the flooded areas where supplies can be dropped off. The United Way relief effort is looking for donations of cleaning supplies as a major current need. They are also accepting toiletries, diapers, baby food, baby formula, non-perishable food items, and bottled water.

For those who would rather help the Louisiana flood victims in a more hands-on way, there are several charities sending relief workers to help clean up after the flooding has subsided. Operation Blessing International has already sent volunteers to aid in the clean-up effort and is still looking for more volunteers. Likewise, Samaritan’s Purse is looking for volunteers who are willing to commit to three days of clean up in Southern Louisiana and will provide housing and meals for those willing to help restore Southern Louisiana.

What about those who want to help but don’t have the money and can’t make the trip? There’s always something that anyone can do to make an impact on those who have been affected by the Louisiana floods of 2016. If nothing else, share. Share information about what is needed and where people can donate their time, money and supplies to help those who have lost their homes.

The Louisiana floods of 2016 have been devastating for thousands in the southeastern region of the state. Help can come from anywhere at any time. For those who want to be part of the flood relief effort, please be sure to donate time, supplies and/or money and share information so others will know that help is needed too.

[Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images]