GoFundMe, the crowdsourcing site, has created a centralized hub of verified fundraisers related to the historic flooding in the greater Milwaukee area last week.
Thousands of residents suffered property damage to homes, cars and businesses, and many are still displaced while preparing to rebuild, after a 1,000-year flood impacted southeast Wisconsin beginning Aug. 9. There’s been tens of millions of dollars in damage.
Although local officials originally said there were no flood-related deaths, several people are believed to be missing from a homeless encampment near the Kinnickinnic River, as waterways rose to record high levels during the flooding.
Federal officials are canvassing the area preparing an assessment for a presidential disaster declaration that Gov. Tony Evers requested, but many turned to GoFundMe for help and the company said there’s been an outpouring of support.
How to donate to the Flood Relief Fund
GoFundMe has a nationwide Flood Relief Fund for those in the U.S. affected by the natural disasters. In an update Aug. 21, GoFundMe said the money raised will directly support local families and particularly Milwaukee Public Schools, which is preparing for a new school year while dealing with flood damage.
How to donate to individuals families and business
To search for families and businesses affected by the floods, visit GoFundMe’s centralized hub.
Other ways to donate, volunteer:
The United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County set up an urgent need fund in response to the flood. To donate, visit its website.
The American Red Cross Wisconsin Region is accepting donations for flood relief on its website. You can also donate by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin is accepting donations on its website.
The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services team is accepting donations on its website.
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity is accepting donations on its website.
Milwaukee residents are encouraged to call 211 to reach a free and confidential service that connects callers with thousands of local programs and services.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: GoFundMe has a centralized hub of Milwaukee area flood fundraisers
Reporting by Drake Bentley, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
