This Friday, the eastern United States, and some 200 million people, are bracing for the worst. Winter storms and freezing temperatures are set to follow a pathway that threatens millions with hazardous conditions, including sleet, ice, snow, extreme cold, and potential blackouts.
Natural disasters like these storms affected some 93 million people in 2023, according to the Center for Research on Epidemiology of Disasters, while claiming more than 86,000 lives worldwide.
As these extreme weather events continue to escalate due to climate change, vulnerability tends to be highest among unhoused populations, low-income communities, and people of color. Greater Good Charities is acutely aware of the need to not only respond after disaster strikes, but to ensure that individuals and communities can feel prepared for disaster before it hits.
When our team is on the ground during severe weather events, we sharpen our focus on the most critical needs. During torrential rains and flooding throughout Los Angeles in early 2024, we responded immediately, providing essentials to the unhoused population impacted the most by the floods.
“Their living circumstances are pretty harsh,” explains Ruby Chase, outreach specialist with LA Family Housing. “They are just trying to do the best out there with what they’ve got, and your donations are very much appreciated… it goes a long way.”
And while unhoused citizens, a community of upwards of 800,000 people, suffer more severe impact during severe weather events, news outlets rarely provide substantial reporting—let alone headlines—that serve to address this issue.
As prices and cost-of-living trend upward, current economic strains have left communities grappling nationwide with elevated risks of homelessness for individuals and families. Shelters and organizations provide support, but many are both overwhelmed and under-resourced to meet the current demand.
Concerns surrounding theft, residential status, and disability often bar people from accessing otherwise available services. At the same time, often-limited access to transportation and communication further exacerbates challenges facing unhoused populations and those trying to maintain contact and support services with them.
In response to these pressing needs, Greater Good Charities has implemented several initiatives aimed at aiding vulnerable communities during times of crisis:
Disaster Relief: The Disaster Relief team proactively monitors potential disasters, mobilizing in response to both natural and man-made emergencies. By providing supplies and relief efforts on the ground, Greater Good Charities supports communities in recovery and reinforces ongoing services for both people and pets. As communities across the eastern U.S. prepare for severe winter storms, our disaster relief program ensures that communities will receive assistance precisely when it’s needed.
Emergency Packs: This program delivers survival and comfort supplies to individuals in crisis, including those experiencing homelessness. Each Emergency Pack contains essential items such as blankets, clothing, hygiene products, and reusable water bottles, catering to diverse needs and circumstances.
Essential Aid: Greater Good Charities distributes food, clothing, and essential supplies to people and pets in need worldwide. By sourcing excess and donated goods, we ensure that vital resources reach qualified distribution groups, supporting a network of charitable partners across various sectors.
Since its inception, Greater Good Charities has facilitated over 300 tons of critical aid for people and pets (including food, water, diapers, hygiene supplies, and more). Through our trust and relationships with domestic and internation emergency teams, we help people and pets around the world by acting as a centralized hub for donations and deliveries.
Millions of Americans need help now more than ever. You can make a difference by joining Greater Good Charities as an Amplifier. Your support enables proactive planning and rapid response to disasters, ensuring that aid reaches vulnerable communities when it's needed most.
Together, we can empower vulnerable communities, protect lives, and build a more resilient future for all. Join us in our mission to provide essential support and assistance to those facing the challenges of homelessness and extreme weather conditions.
By amplifying our collective efforts, we can create a world where no one is left behind during times of crisis.