Updated October 14, 2016
Hurricane Matthew swept across the Caribbean and the southeastern United States in October, bringing with it heavy rains, powerful winds and flooding.
In Haiti, more than 1,000 people have been reported dead and more than a million people are in need of aid after Matthew left a path of destruction across the already impoverished nation. This is Haiti's worst natural disaster since the 2010 earthquake, from which the country is still recovering. Other areas of the Caribbean have also been hard-hit by the storm.1
The storm also hit the southeastern United States, causing record flooding and some loss of life.
In the aftermath of a hurricane, the main priorities are providing storm victims with aid and ensuring that immediate food and temporary housing needs are met. Later phases concentrate on rebuilding infrastructure, supporting lost jobs and creating disaster preparedness plans to reduce the impact and risk of future natural disasters.
For donors interested in supporting the relief efforts in Haiti, below are organizations that Fidelity Charitable has confirmed were on the ground in Haiti before the hurricane and that have a strong and established record of excellence in disaster-relief services. These organizations have moved quickly to respond to the disaster and provide aid in affected communities, addressing a range of immediate needs, including medical support, food, water and temporary housing.
Fidelity Charitable has confirmed the American National Red Cross has mobilized to respond to Hurricane Matthew and is actively providing aid and resources.
In times of a domestic disaster, the American National Red Cross plays a particularly central role in coordinating and responding to the immediate needs of those affected. While the Red Cross is independent from the government, it was chartered by Congress in 1905 with the responsibility to respond 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 Matthew. Fidelity Charitable does not endorse these organizations, and provides this list for reference purposes only. All grant recommendations are subject to review and approval by the Fidelity Charitable Trustees. Fidelity Charitable will communicate all grant designation recommendations for Hurricane Matthew relief to grantees.
For donors who prefer faith-based giving, religious charities are often at the forefront of disaster relief and can be another effective way to respond to Hurricane Matthew. It is important to ensure that the religious partner organizations are connecting with charities that have experience in disaster relief or already have established relationships with Haiti and in the southeastern United States. For additional information about faith-based giving, contact your particular house of worship or its relief agency to learn more about its role in disaster relief.
1"Hurricane Matthew Makes Old Problems Worse for Haitians," New York Times, October 7, 2016.
How Fidelity Charitable can help
Since 1991, we have been a leader in charitable planning and giving solutions, helping donors like you support their favorite charities in smart ways.
Or call us at 800-262-6039