Updated September 12, 2019
For more than two weeks, Hurricane Dorian cut a path of destruction across the Caribbean and the southeastern United States. After building strength through the Caribbean, the powerful system crawled into the Bahamas as a Category 5 storm on September 1. At least 50 have died, and search and rescue operations are ongoing for the thousands who are still missing. Entire communities have been flattened, including homes, businesses, and ports of entry. The economic impact of the storm is already estimated to be more than $7 billion.
Following its hit to the Bahamas, Hurricane Dorian battered the North Carolina coast with winds and rain, leading to extensive flooding and power outages. Many of the impacted communities are still getting back on their feet after major storms in 2017 and 2018, meaning another long recovery is ahead for coastal residents.
Given the extensive damage in the Bahamas and the United States, organizations will need short- and long-term recovery funding to help meet the needs of individuals, families and communities.
Fidelity Charitable has collaborated with the Center for Disaster Philanthropy to provide the following list of organizations offering relief for the storm. These organizations are highlighted because they have existing operations or chapters in the region, the ability to incorporate a large influx of donations, and a strong, established record of excellence in disaster relief services.
Following a natural disaster, there can be an increased risk of fraud committed by individuals preying upon the good intentions of people wanting to help; donors should take care that the organizations they are supporting are legitimate. Fidelity Charitable makes grants only to IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) public charities, such as the organizations below.
The American National Red Cross was chartered by Congress in 1905 to play a central role in coordinating and responding to domestic and international disasters.
Please note the organizations listed in this guidance do not represent the full list of organizations raising money for relief efforts for Hurricane Dorian. Fidelity Charitable has collaborated with the Center for Disaster Philanthropy to provide these organizations to donors for reference purposes only, and Fidelity Charitable does not endorse these organizations. All grant recommendations are subject to review and approval by the Fidelity Charitable Trustees. Fidelity Charitable will communicate all grant designation recommendations for Hurricane Dorian relief to grantees.
CDP brief: Hurricane Dorian
An overview with the latest on Hurricane Dorian, with additional resources and ideas for donors who want to help.
Four phases of disaster relief
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Issue insight: Hurricanes
CDP discusses the impact of our nation’s most common natural disaster and the underestimated trouble of their impact.
How Fidelity Charitable can help
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