On 1 September 2019, the Bahamas was hit by a Category 5 storm, Hurricane Dorian.

Dorian left at least 45 people dead in the Abaco Islands and Grand Bahama and caused extensive damage to thousands of homes and businesses. The number of people killed is expected to rise.

Bahama’s Prime Minister Hubert Minnis called the storm “one of the greatest national crises in our country’s history”.

The people of the Bahamas face a daunting task rebuilding their lives, but there are several ways you can help. You can assist by making monetary donations or giving much-needed supplies, such as tinned food, batteries, painkillers, and bottled water.

According to experts monetary contributions donated to established, vetted charitable organisations are usually the most beneficial to survivors and relief operations.

Below are some other tips you should keep in mind before donating:

*Do some research before donating money to any group.

*Organisations with strong local ties to their community can sometimes be the best option.

*You have a right to demand accountability from the groups you give to.

Here are are some of the most reputable international charity organisations which have launched efforts to help Hurricane Dorian victims:

Samaritan’s Purse – https://www.samaritans-purse.org.uk/idr-crisis/hurricane-dorian-relief/

Unicef – https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/hurricane-dorian-devastates-bahamas-and-threatens-us/36277

Direct Relief – https://www.directrelief.org/emergency/hurricane-dorian/

Pan American Development Foundation – https://www.padf.org/hurricane-dorian-royal

You should also check local media to find out which organisations on your islands are collecting donations.