As many of our neighbors in New Jersey and New York continue to struggle in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the University of Pennsylvania’s faculty, staff and students have undertaken a number of efforts within their respective units to support the victims of this terrible natural disaster.

The Penn community should be aware that several organizations are actively supporting those whose lives have been upended by the storm and are accepting donations from those who want to help:

The American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.  For decades, the Red Cross has been on the front lines, providing compassionate care to those who have been impacted by disasters.  Online donations to support their work can be made at http://www.redcross.org/charitable-donations

The Salvation Army.  The Salvation Army is providing meals, clothing and blankets to victims of the storm.  They have established a fund specifically to support aid to those afflicted by Hurricane Sandy:

https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/disaster

The Robin Hood Relief Fund.  For more than 20 years, the Robin Hood Fund has supported programs to fight poverty in New York City.  They have set up a special relief fund to provide direct aid to victims of the storm, which can be accessed at

https://www.robinhood.org/take-action/SandyRelief.aspx

Beyond donations, there is also a need for active volunteering, and information on ways to become involved in the efforts in New Jersey can be found at NJ.Com: http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/11/hurricane_sandy_resources_how.html   To volunteer or make donations in New York City, visit NYC Service at nyc.gov/service.

We were fortunate in Philadelphia that damage from the storm was limited, but there continues to be great need for help in New Jersey and New York, and we encourage those on campus who would like to support those efforts to do so now, while the need is greatest.