How to Help Central Texas Flooding Victims

Heavy rain in Central Texas has flooded communities in the Austin area, forcing schools to close and requiring multiple high-water rescues.

In order to help residents affected by the flooding, the American Red Cross has opened shelters in Austin and some of the surrounding areas.

North Texas wanting to help give assistance to the Central Texas flood victims have multiple ways to help.

Staying in Touch
The Red Cross' "Safe and Well" website works to help let people in a disaster area to register their status and let loved ones know they're alright. The aid organization said those concerned about loved ones that might be affected by the flooding can check that website and enter the person's name and phone number or address to find their current status. Please note that the person you're looking for needs to have already signed up with the site.

Donations
Red Cross organizers said they cannot take "small, individual donations or collections of items such as clothing, food or cleaning supplies." Aid workers recommend giving items to local shelters or using the items to raise funds, which can then be donated to the organization to help with disaster relief. Many aid organizations have told NBC 5 in the past that monetary donations are the best way to help victims in disaster areas, as the organization can then spend such funds on the most essential items.

Volunteers
Volunteer specialists on the Red Cross staff are working to help organize and assign volunteers to assist flooding victims. Contact Victoria Goldfedib at (512) 929-1209 or apply online by clicking here to volunteer to help. Organizers ask for patience as they collect volunteers.

Blood Donations
American Red Cross and other state blood banks are already providing blood to affected area hospitals. Donating blood through the Blood and Tissue Center of Central Texas is one way people in the Austin area can help. For North Texans, donating blood at your local blood center will help keep supplies available if additional need is required.