How to help those hit by Oklahoma tornado
As the death toll rises for the massive tornado that hit Moore, Okla., Monday afternoon, some well-known relief agencies are jumping into action. There are many ways for those in Oklahoma and all over the country to help.
It important to note, however, that tragedy also unfortunately offers the opportunity for scams and charity fraud. The Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt said there are 30 investigators in the field to help Oklahomans avoid scams and encouraged well-meaning volunteers and donors to use reputable charities.
Below is a list of trusted organizations assisting the relief effort in Oklahoma.
DonorsChoose.org
Here is the Donors Choose link to help teachers and students in Moore rebuild. Find them on Twitter: @DonorsChoose
http://www.donorschoose.org/okschools
The Salvation Army
Here is a link to donate for the Salvation Army's tornado relief in Oklahoma
https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/uss/eds/aok
Or use your cell phone to donate: Support #OKwx efforts - give online @SalvationArmyUSA.org or text "STORM" to 80888 2 make $10 donation #tornado
The Red Cross
Here is a link to donate to the Red Cross' tornado relief in Oklahoma
http://www.redcross.org/ok/oklahoma-city
You can also make donations via phone by dialing 1-800-REDCROSS or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
OU Sooners @UofOklahoma
The University of Oklahoma is opening up spaces in Housing for the displaced families! Call 405-325-2511
Google Crisis Map
http://google.org/crisismap/2013-oklahoma-tornado
AmeriCares
Home page for AmeriCares organization
http://www.americares.org/emergency-response/#er-c
Operation Blessing
The humanitarian organization is sending food and emergency relief supplies to Moore. They have coordinated more than 500 volunteers in the effort, including many from longtime partner, The Home Depot.
Donations are accepted online at www.ob.org and https://secure.ob.org/site/Donation2?df_id=1440&1440.donation=form1.
Oklahoma Disaster Relief
Home page for Baptist Church's disaster relief
http://www.okdisasterhelp.com/2013/05/disaster-relief-how-to-help/
Operation USA
The Los Angeles-based international relief agency Operation USA is providing emergency aid where needed to community-based health organizations across Oklahoma. Donate online at www.opusa.org, or by phone at 1.800.678.7255