Talking about what you see on TV, in newspapers, or online can help you deal with your feelings about the aftermath of disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes. In addition to talking about it, though, many people find the best way to deal with the news of a tragedy is to help.

Here are a few things you can do:

Make a donation. The following organizations are just a few that accept cash donations when people are affected by natural disasters:

• American Red Cross: (800) HELP-NOW
• Hurricane Katrina New Orleans Recovery Fund: (877) 387-6126
• Salvation Army: (800) 725-2769
• UNICEF: (800) 4UNICEF

But what if you're a little strapped for cash? Helping doesn't have to mean spending money. Here are some other things you can do:

Organize a school fundraiser. Talk with your teacher or school administrators about starting school-based activities to raise money or supplies. If you're organizing a donation drive, check with the groups listed above to be sure they need the items you plan to send. Sometimes they get too many donations and have to spend money storing or handling the excess items.

Organize a community event. Talk to your place of worship or a local community center (like the YMCA) about organizing a walk, run, bake sale, or other activity to raise money.

Donate clothes, food, or other items. Check with your local community center or place of worship to find out whether you can drop off donations or if there's another way you can contribute. (Again, it's a good idea to check with the organizations listed above to be sure they need the things you plan to send.)

Start small. You don't need a big group of people to make a difference. Every donation, regardless of size, helps to rebuild communities that are hit by natural disasters.

Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date reviewed: September 2005

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