Oklahoma Tornado Devastation — How To Help

Like most of the country, I'm glued to the coverage of what's unfolding in Oklahoma.  Entire buildings flatted...vehicles tossed like crumpled foil...communities that are all but non-existent.

It's hard for us to sit by and watch.

While we try to sort out details and find out where there is the greatest need, please do what you can and donate to the Red Cross. The Oklahoma City chapter says that as they assess the damage, in the immediate aftermath, the best way to help is to donate at the Red Cross Website or text REDCROSS to 90999.

The Salvation Army has also mobilized to provide emergency relief services. You can donate online or by texting STORM to 80888.

Samaritan's Purse is another poverty-fighting non-profit that has sent relief crews. You can donate and find out more on their site. They, too, are a registered 501(c) organization.

As a side note, I would be remiss if I didn't mention something that -- unfortunately -- we see with every tragedy fraudulent charities. With so many people trying to do so much good, a few bad apples can spoil the cart. PLEASE, do your homework before making a donation to anyone other than those who are registered and certified (i.e., The Red Cross is a registered 501(c) non-profit organization). The three I have listed are indeed registered.