Tourism Cares told the travel industry that those donating
to disaster-relief efforts in southeastern Texas should keep in mind long-term
recovery and the impact on tourism.
"The immediate needs are dire and demand immediate
response -- that is always clear. Yet at this moment it's also important to
consider how your donations can help the longer-term recovery of the tourism
destinations we know and love," Tourism Cares CEO Mike Rea said in a
statement.
Tourism Cares, a nonprofit dedicated to helping destinations
thrive through social impact, has led response programs in the aftermath of
natural disasters, including hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, the Nepal earthquake
and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
The organization said it is in contact with Texas travel and
tourism officials who are assessing damage to Houston, Rockport, Port Aransas
and other destinations in the state, and is evaluating the best ways for the
industry to assist the recovery.
"At this vital time for coastal Texas communities and
when the bulk of charitable donations are made in response to a disaster ...
the underlying message is to diversify disaster giving," advised Tourism
Cares.
The organization offered these tips to those who want to
help: give to more than one charity, spread funding to organizations with
different goals, give to recovery as well as relief because the recovery phase
is often far longer and more expensive, fund local organizations, and save some
giving for later in the recovery process.
Tourism Cares also recommended several vetted organizations.
For relief, it suggested donating to the Central Texas Red Cross and Southern
Baptist Disaster Relief. To assist with children-related causes, it said that
Save the Children is working with families and disaster shelters, and that
Driscoll Children's Hospital was in the path of the hurricane and will have
needs.
For recovery and local support, there is a mayor's relief
fund at the Greater Houston Community Foundation, and the Center for Disaster
Philanthropy is also a resource.