Living in Houston, TX,  we have seen our fair share of hurricanes and the impact they have on families, businesses, and the local economy.

My prayers go out to those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

I know there are many out there that want to help with Hurricane Sandy Relief.

As with any natural disaster, please be wary of any unsolicited calls for donations.  There are many scams going on right now regarding Hurricane Sandy relief.

All the charities listed below are legit and are already helping those affected.

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Text message: Text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. As in the case with other donations via mobile, the donation will show up on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your balance if you have a prepaid phone. You need to be 18 or older, or have parental permission, to donate this way. (If you change your mind, text the word STOP to 90999.)

Phone: 800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767); for Spanish speakers, 800-257-7575; for TDD,  800-220-4095.

To donate blood: Visit this Red Cross Web page.

SALVATION ARMY

Text message: Text the word STORM to 80888 to make a $10 donation. To confirm the donation, respond with the word “Yes.”

Phone: 800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769)

Online: Salvation Army; here’s the organization’s New Jersey site, and its Greater New York site.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES

Many pet owners were able to take their pets with them, but for those who were not, the Humane Society’s Animal Rescue Team is assembling staff and equipment to help rescue pets in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.

Phone: 301-258-8276

Online: Humane Society of the United States

AMERICAN HUMANE ASSOCIATION

The association is helping animals that may need rescue or shelter.

Text message: Text the word HUMANE to 80888 to donate $10.

Phone: 866-242-1877.

Online: The AHA’s website for donating is here.

FEEDING AMERICA

The organization will deliver food, water and supplies to communities in need through its network of food banks and the agencies they serve.

Phone: 800-910-5524

Online: This is Feeding America’s main website.

AMERICARES

This group provides emergency medicine and supplies. Donations are accepted on its accepts donations on its website.

Phone: 800-486-4357.

Local churches are also raising money to help sister churches in the affected areas.

Let’s all do our part to help those in need.  These same people reached out us when the Houston and surrounding areas were affected by Hurricane IKE.