Two years ago, I wrote a similar post about hurricanes Irma and Harvey. Now we are facing another record-breaking storm in the Atlantic with Dorian that devastated the Bahamas and is threatening several states. According to The Washington Post, Dorian “has risen to the top of the charts among the most powerful tropical systems ever observed in the Atlantic Ocean.” It’s the strongest storm on record to occur east of Florida in the Atlantic, tied for the strongest winds at landfall on record in the Atlantic Ocean, and tied for second when it comes to maximum winds in the Atlantic.
It breaks my heart to see the destruction that has already happened in the Bahamas and what is to come in some coastal communities in the United States. Happy Science Mom is about raising our children to be happy and balanced. Part of that journey involves helping others in need and recognizing what we can do to make the world a better place.
Here are 5 ways that you can take action now as a family to help others during this unimaginable disaster recovery period:
Donate A Financial Gift
The Red Cross’ Bahama Branch is requesting help for its Dorian-relief program. Donate here.
Save the Children has an emergency support team to help children and families impacted by the storm. Donate here.
United Way of Miami-Dade and the Miami Herald/el Nuevo Herald have joined forces to activate Operation Helping Hands, an effort to support response, relief, and recovery efforts in the region affected by Hurricane Dorian. Donate here.
National Association of The Bahamas Hurricane Relief Fund. This non-profit is supported by voluntary partnership of Bahamians and friends of the Bahamas, all working to better the communities in the Bahamas. NAB has been in existence since 1993 and it is managed by Bahamians living in the Miami Metro and surrounding areas. Donate here.
The Archdiocese of Miami is accepting donations for those affected by the storm through Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami. One-hundred percent of the donations will be used for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts. Donate here.
The Greater Miami Jewish Federation has established a special relief fund to provide immediate assistance to those in the Bahamas and elsewhere impacted by Hurricane Dorian. The organization has pledged to absorb all administrative costs so all of the proceeds will go toward relief efforts. Donate here.
Volunteer In Person As A Family
Children are born with compassion, but it is up to us to nurture this instinct as they grow. If you live nearby, sign up to volunteer as a family to hand out food, water, and other supplies to those in need. Or take a huge leap and travel with your kids to the places hit hard to help out on the ground. Check with local organizations for opportunities to get involved in person. There are tons of opportunities being posted on social media here in South Florida.
Educate Your Children About The Power Of Nature
Climate change is clearly stirring up stronger, more frequent storms because of warmer temperatures due to carbon emissions. Listen to NBC Miami Chief Meteorologist John Morales’ explanation about how climate change impacts the intensity of hurricanes. If we are going to be able to prepare and address these weather and climate changes, then we need more talented scientists and community leaders who understand the value of science. Our children are our future, and it is up to us to give them resources to learn about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). We can start by introducing them to wonderful tools like STEM books, magazines, and science experiment kits.
Teach Your Kids To Appreciate And Respect Nature
By spending time outdoors enjoying the beauty and awe that our natural environment provides, our children will feel better emotionally and understand the importance of protecting the natural world. Go on a hike, organize a family camping trip, garden, and look for creative ways to play outside. Your family can also make a big difference year-round by volunteering outdoors in nature doing activities like beach cleanups, planting trees, and working with animals.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
The climate is on a warming trend, and much of these changes are a result of human activity. Our daily actions–from the food we eat to the clothes we wear to the transportation we take–are harming our environment. Check out these past posts for tips on going green to reduce your carbon footprint:
- How To Make The Easy Switch To Clean Energy For Your Home
- Why Paperless Birthday Invitations Are Better For You And The Planet
- Why Eco-Friendly Clothing Is Better For Your Kids And The World
- How To Teach Your Kids That Going Green Saves Money
- How To Design A Gorgeous Eco-Friendly Bedroom For Your Children
- Best Stores To Find Safe, Eco Friendly Gifts For Your Family
What will you do to help those impacted by Hurricane Dorian? If you know of other hurricane relief efforts, please let us know in the comments below.
The post 5 Ways Your Family Can Help After Hurricane Dorian appeared first on Happy Science Mom.