The Pittsburgh Foundation

Responding to a Crisis How to Help When Crisis Strikes

Teresa Reynolds sits exhausted as members of her community clean the debris from their flooded homes in Ogden Hollar in Hindman, Ky., Saturday, July 30, 2022, after record rains struck the area. (AP Photo by Timothy D. Easley)
Teresa Reynolds sits exhausted as members of her community clean the debris from their flooded homes in Ogden Hollar in Hindman, Ky., Saturday, July 30, 2022, after record rains struck the area. (AP Photo by Timothy D. Easley)

When disaster strikes, locally or nationally, the first question for many, especially in Pittsburgh where philanthropy is so embedded in the community, is “How can I help?” Sending emergency supplies is usually not the most effective way to give, particularly in communities where disasters may have weakened the infrastructure. This is especially true in the event of floods, hurricanes and other natural disasters. 

Where to Give

The best practice is to give money to charities that know the affected community well and are positioned to provide immediate and longer-term response. Here are a few that we recommend:

Additional Resources

If you want to learn more, this additional information about best practices in giving in times of disaster should be helpful: