One of the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded, Hurricane Dorian, completely devastated the Bahamas. The storm left at least fifty people dead, hundreds more missing and destroying tens of thousands of homes and businesses. Entire communities have been wiped out, and aid agencies estimate that tens of thousands of people need support.
Monetary donations are important for disaster relief organizations to fund recovery efforts, and should be prioritized over contributing physical items. Adhere to lists provided by the government of the Bahamas or the organizations themselves if donating goods. Rescue workers don’t want supplies to go to waste.
Here are six organizations that are working on the ground or in concert with organizations in the Bahamas. The Bahamas has also set up an online resource center that is providing updates on relief efforts.
BAHAMASTRONG
Operated by the City of Miami, Bahamastrong is collecting hurricane relief supplies for affected areas in the Bahamas. You can find a list of desired donations and drop-off locations in Miami here.
Abaco Relief Fund
Set up by the Discovery Land Co., one of the largest employers on Abaco. Discovery Land has an amazing track record of supporting their employees and communities affected in other natural disasters. Discovery Land has donated millions to communities in Barbuda, Mexico and the Bahamas to rebuild.
National Association of the Bahamas
The NAB is a Bahamas-based nonprofit that has been operating since 1993. Please donate to relief efforts on its website.
Operation Helping Hands
Operation Helping Hands works with the local United Way and other agencies to support immediate and long-term needs in affected areas. You can donate on its website.
Bahamas Red Cross
The Bahamian branch of the Red Cross is seeking donations of money and supplies, including non-perishable baby clothes, cleaning supplies and bedding.
International Medical Corps
This global humanitarian nonprofit sends medical teams to areas stricken by disasters. You can help efforts by donating on its website.
GoFundMe
The crowd-funding company has set up a page of verified campaigns from individuals, families and organizations impacted by Hurricane Dorian. It’s advised to give to these campaigns as opposed to random ones you might find online, as scams abound after disasters.
Americares
Americares, a nonprofit that provides emergency medical care, is on the ground in the Bahamas. It is also ready to send medical teams to help survivors. You can donate on its website.
Remember to be diligent when donating to relief funds, as scams abound. If you come across someone soliciting relief funds and you think it’s suspicious, you can report it to your states Attorney General office.
