According to FEMA, there have been 105 declared natural disasters in the United States this year. From the flooding in Arkansas, Missouri and parts of Illinois, to the wildfires in California and the Pacific Northwest, to the most recent devastation experienced in Houston, Florida, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico caused by hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, thousands of people are now homeless and billions of dollars and many months will be needed to complete a full recovery.
These events, while catastrophic, have had one positive outcome. They have inspired people to come together and make philanthropic gifts to the relief efforts. To date, Ren has assisted hundreds of donors with grants from their Donor-Advised Funds to help support relief efforts, including country music star Kenny Chesney and his Love for Love City Foundation which has now raised over $700K.
That is just one example of the goodwill that has sprung forth as a result of the horrific events. Ren has had more than 500 donor advised funds recommend more than 750 grants to 240 separate charities totaling over $2.2 million for hurricane disaster relief alone.
While government assistance will eventually help the people and communities that have been affected, it is the charitable spirit of the American people who are the first to respond to the needs of our own. Whether it is providing shelter, preparing food, rebuilding homes, giving blood or sending donations, charities exert significant resources after a natural disaster and provide hope to all who are affected by such disasters.
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This blog content is the property of Ren and is made available for educational purposes as well as to provide a general understanding of different philanthropic strategies. Ren is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If legal advice or other expertise is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.
