Today’s Solutions: March 18, 2025

Hurricane Ida made landfall on Sunday as a powerful Category 4 storm. This is the largest hurricane to hit Louisiana since Katrina and the storm is causing widespread damage across Mississippi as well. Although it has been downgraded to a tropical storm as it moves northeast, it left one million homes without power and much of the damage has only begun to be assessed. If you would like to make a donation to support relief efforts, here are some of the organizations working on the ground.

Imagine Water Works

This New Orleans-based organization is supporting communities affected by Ida with emergency supplies, recovery efforts, and resiliency projects to better prepare for future storms. You can donate to their Hurricane Ida efforts here and check out their guide for disaster preparedness here.

Cajun Navy Relief

This nonprofit was founded after Hurricane Katrina and provides rescue services and emergency supplies. You can donate supplies here, apply to volunteer here, or donate funds through the organization’s PayPal here. Those affected by Ida in need of emergency supplies can contact the organization here.

Another Gulf Is Possible Collaborative

This organization is collecting relief funds through the nonprofit ActBlue. Their work focuses on racial justice and funds are distributed “directly to indigenous, black, and brown frontline folks impacted by Hurricane Ida and groups who currently don’t have online donations capacity, as well as directly to individual families impacted by the storm.” You can donate to the organization here and visit their page to learn more about other organizations offering relief to historically under-supported communities.

NOLA Ready

This is the City of New Orleans’ program to rally volunteers in the wake of a disaster. They are currently looking for volunteers for on-the-ground support. Sign up to volunteer here.

United Way

This national organization is offering relief in both Louisiana and Mississippi. You can donate here.

Mutual Aid Disaster Relief

This grassroots organization is looking for volunteers and donations. You can sign up to volunteer here and donate to the organization here.

Helping Pets

Pets are impacted by natural disasters, too. If you would like to extend support to animals as well, The Austin Humane Society, Houston SPCA in Texas, and Atlanta Human Society in Georgia are all taking in rescues and could benefit from donations. Operation Kindness and the Jefferson Parish SPCA have also partnered together to transport displaced animals.

Unfortunately, many scammers will use a crisis as an opportunity to take advantage of those looking to help. Ensure that your money is going to a valid relief organization by avoiding phone calls soliciting donations and researching the charity in question on charitynavigator.org.

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

How science is bringing movement and sensation back to paralyzed hands

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM For decades, advances in medical technology have focused on restoring movement to people living with paralysis. But for ...

Read More

Why you should call your friends more (and how to make it happen)

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Imagine it’s a typical night, and you’re curled up on the couch, casually watching re-runs of your favorite ...

Read More

Feeding cattle seaweed could change the world

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas and a major contributor to climate change. About 70 percent of agricultural methane comes from enteric fermentation, chemical ...

Read More

Managing your money during trying times: 5 financial tips that just work

In a world where expenses seem to outpace income and the looming threat of rising interest rates, it's time to roll up your sleeves and ...

Read More