We’ve all been watching the heartbreaking news unfold in communities from Rockport to Houston. Many ATPE members have been personally affected by the storms. Others have contacted the state office to asking how you can best help your fellow educators in need. ATPE members have such generous spirits.

Any time we make a donation, we all want to ensure:

1. That those affected by the disaster are getting the goods and services they need most; and
2. That the financial assistance is sent to the communities where the need is the greatest.

With this in mind, ATPE strongly encourages you to donate to a reputable charity with a strong track record of assisting Texans during a disaster. For your convenience, here are links to the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army. You can also research other charities by visiting Guidestar.

If you're wondering about donating household items and clothing, first check out this 2013 article from NPR. Responders often call donations of goods the "disaster after the disaster," and the NPR piece offers a good explanation for this.

Please keep the ATPE family members affected by Hurricane Harvey in your thoughts and prayers.