How to help those affected: The American Red Cross response to Sandy is very large and is
going to be very costly, affecting a massive area spanning much of the eastern
half of the United States.
Approximately 300 Red Cross blood drives have already been
cancelled due to the storm, and more are expected. This represents a loss of as
many as 10,500 blood and platelet products. The Red Cross is urging immediate
blood and platelet donations in areas where it is safe to do so. To schedule an
appointment, people can go to redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
Financial donations help the Red Cross provide shelter,
food, emotional support and other assistance to those affected by disasters
like Hurricane Sandy, as well as countless crises at home and around the world.
To donate, people can visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS, or text the
word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent
to someone's local Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243,
Washington, DC 20013.