Oh Sandy

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”

Charles Dickens

(image courtesy of Instagram user @newyorkcity)

We’ve all seen the photos now, the news, the destruction, the lives lost from Sandy.  We also have witnessed people coming together, being kind to one another, helping friends, family and even strangers.

The social + digital web has allowed us to connect, share news, get updates on our loved ones.  It also can help us come together to help people who are in need.  Each one of us can do our part, whether with our time, our money or both.

We discovered over 600,000 images on Instagram using the hashtag #sandy, as well as several MILLION Tweets.  During the heart of the storm, “We are OK” was the most popular status update on Facebook, bringing some type of calm and comfort to millions who were so worried about their loved ones.  WOW.

Here are a few ways you can help those affected by Sandy’s destruction.

Disaster Relief Fund
The NCA Disaster Relief Fund was established in 1955 to assist salons in rebuilding following the devastation of natural disaster. Over the course of five decades, the fund has been there for professionals in times of dire need.

Red Cross
Each year, the American Red Cross immediately responds to about 70,000 natural and man-made disasters in the U.S., ranging from fires to hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hazardous materials spills, transportation accidents and explosions.

FEMA
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

We can all do our part to help the victims of this devastating natural disaster.  Even if you cannot give money, you can share resources on the social web, volunteer your time, anything, just do something. We thank you, and those in need thank you.

(shared with LOVE from your passionistas Nina + Gordon)