Experts offer advice to those who are looking for ways they can help after disasters like the partial collapse of a condo building in Miami.Champlain Towers South Condo in Surfside collapsed at 2 a.m., leaving at least 10 people injured and at least one person dead. Frank Rollason of Miami-Dade Emergency Management said that more than 70 units had been damaged or destroyed.Rollason stated that everyone alive was out of the building. However, authorities anticipate more deaths.Freddy Ramirez, Miami-Dade Police director, said that as many as 99 people may be missing while search and rescue teams dig through rubble in search of survivors.Compass Realty's Realtor told the Miami Herald that approximately 70% of the 130 buildings were occupied at time of collapse.To reunite family members after the fall, a reunification hotline has been set up. The Miami Herald reports that relatives living or working in the building are encouraged to call 305-614-1819 to inform officials.These are just a few of the many ways that experts believe the public can help after a disaster.Donating goods and moneyAccording to ready.gov, financial donations to recognized disaster relief organisations are the best way to help those affected by a disaster.These donations enable voluntary organizations to finance response and recovery efforts, procure goods and services locally, and provide financial assistance to disaster victims to meet their needs.The public can support these organizations by contributing financial resources. This helps to ensure that there is a steady supply of services for those in need following a disaster, ready.gov states.According to the American Red Cross, it has worked with local authorities in helping with the aftermath of the collapse. However, the Tampa Bay Times reported that it has yet to set up a fund for victims.Continue the storyIt is also possible to donate goods specifically requested by recognized organizations.However, donating unwanted goods such as clothes or miscellaneous household items can cause organizations to divert resources from providing services that are needed, ready.gov states.Before you begin collecting, confirm the needs with the volunteer organization of your choice.Avoid charity fraud to ensure that your donations go to the people who are most affected. Here are some tips to help you avoid being scammed when donating.VolunteeringVolunteering with recognized organizations involved in disaster response is another way to help.It is important that you don't just show up and help, as this can hinder the efforts of other responders. Officials suggest that you learn how to help through organizations like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and others.The Federal Emergency Management Agency states that volunteers will be needed only if they are identified by trusted organizations in the affected areas. Volunteers can be very helpful depending on the stage of the disaster.The Miami Herald reports that Surfiside's Red Cross is on the streets helping people who are waiting to hear from their missing loved ones.Steve Stowe, vice-president and executive director at the Miami Heat Charitable Fund, stated to the Tampa Bay Times, that their partners at World Central Kitchen, Direct Relief, and World Central Kitchen would deliver hot meals, food trucks, and assist some of the displaced victims.FEMA states that recovery efforts following a disaster will take longer than media attention.FEMA states that volunteers will be needed for months or even years after a disaster. Sometimes, your help is needed even after a disaster.
