Ida relief: Where to donate and volunteer

Meredith Abdelnour, Arcade Editor

men in a boat in floodwaters
Organizations are on the ground helping affected members of the community. (US National Archives )

While it has now been over two weeks since Hurricane Ida hit Louisiana, the impacts of the storm remain in the community. Many were left without power for weeks or had their homes destroyed. Although the levee system primarily protected New Orleans, the same was not true for the river parishes and much of southeastern Louisiana.

One of the best ways to give back to Louisiana is by donating to organizations doing on-the-ground work. These grassroots groups are collecting donations and using them to provide direct aid, food and supplies to the people who need help most. 

Second Harvest Food Bank

Second Harvest has delivered 2.5 million pounds of food, water and supplies and is responding across 16 parishes. Donating just $1 helps them provide four meals to those impacted by Ida. 

Feed the Second Line

Feed the Second Line works on roof repairs and tarping, as well as supplies distribution. They have also partnered with Glass Half Full for Stay Lit, a project that aims to install solar panels on neighborhood restaurants so these establishments can remain operational and serve the community during disasters. 

Culture Aid NOLA

Culture Aid NOLA is preparing and distributing food and groceries in the aftermath of Ida. You can sign up to volunteer with them here.

Another Gulf is Possible

Another Gulf is Possible has been on the ground redistributing food and funds since the hurricane. Their website also features many resources for preparing for and dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane. 

Imagine Water Works 

Imagine Water Works created a resource center with hot food, supplies, internet access, FEMA paperwork assistance and even live music. Stay up-to-date via their Instagram for more details on what they offer daily.

If you are unable to donate, there are many volunteer opportunities, such as rebuilding Grow Dat Youth Farm or cooking with World Central Kitchen. This weekend, Louisiana Bucket Brigade is hosting a cleanup to patch up roofs in St. James and St. John the Baptist parishes. Outreach Tulane, an annual day of service hosted by Tulane, will also focus on Ida relief this year. 

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