Disaster Work United American Water Food Organization Experiencing

In the United States, many "nonprofit organizations" (organizations that exist to help others or to serve a cause, not to make money) provide disaster relief services. Some of these organizations work "domestically" (within the United States), others work in specific countries or regions, and others work anywhere in the world.

The American Red Cross is probably the best-known "humanitarian" (intending to help people) organization. It "responds" (reacts) to all kinds of emergencies. For example, after Hurricane Katrina, it provided bottled water, food, and "tents" (temporary shelters; a shelter made of fabric that people can use to sleep in) for the "victims" (people affected by a disaster). The American Red Cross also helps disaster victims find their friends and family members if they have been separated.

The Salvation Army is a nonprofit organization that "primarily" (mostly) helps Americans meet their "basic needs" by assisting poor people with food, water, and housing. However, it also has disaster response teams that work in specific American communities when they need help.

World Vision is a Christian relief organization that tries to improve the lives of children living in "poverty" (without money) everywhere in the world and especially in disaster areas. It asks individuals to "sponsor" a child, sending a certain amount of money each month to cover the costs of giving that child food, water, medicine, and education.

Catholic Charities works within the United States to reduce poverty and support families and communities, "regardless of" (without considering) their religious beliefs. The organization provides "technical assistance" (specialized knowledge) and "financial assistance" (money) during domestic disasters.