Hurricane Sandy: How to help victims of the superstorm

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For those outside the disaster area ravaged by Hurricane Sandy, it can be frustrating to watch the reports of devastation wreaking the lives of people living in New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, New York and beyond.

How can I help? you wonder, while driving to work under clear skies and gentle breezes, hundreds or thousands of miles away from the damage.

Here are a few ways to give aid, even if you can't volunteer to help in the cleanup.

American Red Cross

President Obama and nominee Mitt Romney have been encouraging Americans to donate to the Red Cross, both linking to the the organization's donation page from their campaign websites.

Financial donations, the Red Cross says, can make the biggest and most immediate impact.

Blood and platelet donations are also sorely needed, as blood drives were canceled due to Sandy's dangerous conditions. Find a blood donation center, make an appointment to donate, and more.

If you are in a position to volunteer, the Red Cross asks that you contact Red Cross Spontaneous Volunteer Director of Volunteer Administration Leslie Fletcher at leslie.fletcher@redcross.org, (215) 405-8558 or (267) 246-4521.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is mobilizing feeding units and providing shelter to victims of the storm's damage.

Feeding America

Feeding America is working to provide food, water and supplies to those hit by the storm through their network of food banks and soup kitchens. Donate here.

AmeriCares

AmeriCares has deployed emergency outreach to deliver medicines and supplies by people affected by Sandy. They will be making tetanus vaccines available as well as personal care and hygiene kits through partners across the damaged area.

Philabundance

The Philadelphia-based organization is facing a food shortage, and is looking for dry food donations as well as financial donations to meet need.

Humane Society of the United States or the American Humane Association

The animal relief organizations are working to rescue pets and other animals lost and hurt in the storm. Donate to the Humane Society or the American Humane Association.

World Vision and Save the Children

Both organizations are aiming their aid at children affected by the storm. Visit the World Vision site or the Save the Children website for more information.

Team Rubicon and Samaritan's Purse

Both cleanup groups are looking for donations and volunteers to help with their field efforts. Visit the Team Rubicon website and the Samaritan's Purse website for more.

Please let us know if you know of other relief efforts for victims of the storm.