How to offer help after a natural disaster: 7 ways to support
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Most of us want to help when loved ones (or even strangers) have gone through a natural disaster. But it can be hard to know where to start. Here are 7 ways to offer your support.
When a loved one, neighbor, or even a bunch of strangers halfway across the world experience a natural disaster, it’s natural to want to jump into action. Watching others lose their homes, communities, and even their lives can be heartbreaking, and the desire to offer support is a beautiful human trait.
But no matter how good our intentions, it’s not always easy to know where to start or what to do.
Survivors of natural disasters often face overwhelming challenges. They have immediate needs like food, clothes, and shelter and must also think about long-term recovery efforts like rebuilding their home, buying a new car, or even relocating to a new city or state entirely. How you help them depends on their situation and circumstances, but no matter what, it’s often meaningful to show them that they’re not alone.
Here are a few thoughtful ways to step in and make a difference for a loved one, an acquaintance, and even those you’ve never met.
1. Help with immediate needs
In the chaos following a natural disaster, basic necessities are often the most urgent. If you’re able to, offering a temporary place to stay if they’ve lost their home is probably the biggest way you can show you care. But if this isn’t possible or practical, you can still provide support with these essentials that can ease some of the immediate stress they’re facing:
Provide meals or groceries: Drop off a homemade meal, non-perishable snacks, or a gift card to a local restaurant or grocery store. If you’re unsure of their preferences, ask first or choose neutral, comforting options.
Offer financial assistance if you can: If you’re in a position to offer financial assistance, that support can be helpful during this time. You can donate to them directly or purchase gift cards for groceries, gas, or other necessities they may need.
Donate essentials: Provide clothing, toiletries, or blankets, but make sure to ask if they need specific items to avoid overwhelming them with unnecessary things. Be sure you donate items that are new or like new, not older items that are showing signs of wear and tear.
2. Respect their boundaries and unique needs
It’s so nice to want to pitch in, but always respect the boundaries of the people affected. Everyone experiences disasters differently, and some people may need more space than others. Keep these tips in mind:
Ask before acting: Instead of assuming what’s best for them or what they may need, ask.
Be patient: They may not immediately know what they need or may decline help at first. Let them take the lead, and offer again later if necessary.
Avoid overwhelming them: Too many offers of help can feel chaotic and actually cause more stress. Focus on providing calm, steady support.
3. Assist with cleanup and repairs
Natural disasters often leave behind physical destruction that can be exhausting (both physically and emotionally) to handle. Help lighten their load by lending a hand in the following ways:
Volunteer for cleanup: Offer to help clear debris, organize salvageable items, or assist with packing belongings. Even an hour of your time can make a big difference.
Arrange professional help: If you’re able, consider hiring services for tasks like home repairs, yard cleanup, or structural assessments on behalf of those in need. Just be sure to ask first.
Provide emotional support during cleanup: Being there as a supportive presence during these tasks can help make a difficult process feel less lonely.
4. Support with logistics and administration
The aftermath of a disaster often involves dealing with insurance claims, replacing important documents, and coordinating resources. These are usually the tasks that can feel overwhelming.
Making calls or doing research: Offer to contact insurance companies, utility providers, or local agencies to gather information or file claims.
Organizing paperwork: Organization is always helpful. Create a system to manage bills, forms, or receipts.
Connecting them to resources: Research local disaster relief organizations like FEMA, shelters, or donation programs that might be able to provide additional support.
5. Provide emotional support
Practical help is invaluable, but so is emotional care. Recovery from a disaster can bring grief, anxiety, and stress that lasts well beyond the initial event.
Be a listening ear: Let them vent, cry, or share their fears without trying to fix their feelings. Just listening and being present can provide immense relief.
Check in regularly: Continue to reach out even after the immediate crisis has passed. Healing and rebuilding can take months or even years, and your consistent support will mean a lot.
Encourage rest and self-care: Gently remind them to take breaks, eat, and rest, as they may be so focused on recovery that they neglect their wellbeing.
💙 Encourage your friend to take time for self-care with Tamara Levitt’s 7 Days of Managing Stress series.
6. Organize community or group efforts
If the disaster has affected an entire neighborhood or town, consider getting together a group of people to organize a larger effort to provide relief to those in need.
Set up a fundraiser: Create a crowdfunding campaign to help cover medical bills, temporary housing, or repair costs for those impacted. Just be sure this is okay with them first.
Coordinate supply donations: Collect and distribute items like water, food, clothing, or hygiene products to those in need.
Volunteer locally: Join or organize efforts through community groups, shelters, or disaster relief organizations.
7. Think about their need for long-term support
Support doesn’t stop after the initial emergency passes. Recovery from a natural disaster can take weeks, months, or even years. Let them know you’re there for the long haul, even as others move on. Consider offering ongoing help by doing the following.
Assisting with long-term tasks: This might include organizing paperwork for insurance claims or rebuilding projects.
Keeping in touch: Checking in periodically to see how they’re progressing and if their needs have changed.
Practical help: Helping them reconnect with their normal routines, like driving kids to school or running errands while they focus on recovery.
💙 Learn how to practice Sustainable Support—with help from the Daily Jay—so you can keep showing up without burning out.
How to help people impacted by a natural disaster when you’re far away
Not everyone can be on the ground after a disaster, (nor should they be) but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a meaningful impact. In many cases, support from afar can be just as valuable, especially when it comes to providing financial resources, logistical assistance, or morale-boosting encouragement.
These ideas can help you support those impacted by challenging weather events, no matter where you’re located.
Donate to reputable organizations: Financial donations are often the quickest and most effective way to help. You can support larger organizations like the Red Cross or Direct Relief, or consider donating to local charities or mutual aid fundraisers that understand the community’s specific needs. Make sure to verify the charities or fundraisers through sites like Charity Navigator or word of mouth to avoid scams (which are sadly all too common during crises).
Organize virtual fundraisers: If you have a clear goal—like covering a loved one's medical expenses or supporting a rebuilding effort—crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or JustGiving make it easy to rally your community and raise funds. Getting specific about your cause will help to encourage more donations.
Send care packages: Coordinate with local shelters or relief organizations to send packages of essentials like toiletries, non-perishable food, or first aid supplies. You can also include comforting items like books or handwritten notes. But always be mindful of what’s truly needed by checking with local groups so your contributions don’t go to waste.
Offer remote admin support: You might offer to submit insurance claims (if it feels appropriate) or research relief programs. Just make sure your notes are detailed, thorough, and easy to understand.
Spread awareness and encouragement: Share verified information about the disaster on social media, highlighting ways others can contribute. You can also write or record messages of support for survivors, first responders, and volunteers to show solidarity.
5 tips for taking care of yourself while helping others
Helping others in the aftermath of a natural disaster is deeply meaningful, but it’s also essential to care for yourself along the way to avoid burnout. If you find it hard to slow down, remember that when you show up for yourself, you’ll be better equipped to show up for others.
Here are five ways to take care of yourself so you can keep taking care of those in need.
1. Set boundaries
Recognize your limits — you can’t help everyone or do everything, and that’s okay.
Decide how much time and energy you can realistically dedicate, and stick to those boundaries.
Learn to say no if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Sustainable support is better than risking burnout.
2. Practice mindfulness
Take regular breaks to check in with your emotions. Naming feelings like stress or sadness can help you process them. (If you don’t even know what you’re feeling, check out The Feelings Wheel.)
Journaling about how you’ve helped can reinforce your sense of purpose and gratitude.
Use grounding techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindful walks to stay centered. Reflect on your efforts.
3. Seek support
Helping others can be emotionally taxing, so lean on friends, family, or support groups to share how you’re feeling.
Watch for signs of compassion fatigue, like irritability or withdrawal, and consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor if needed.
Join communities of volunteers or disaster responders to exchange experiences and coping strategies.
4. Maintain your physical health
Prioritize sleep, as fatigue can cloud your judgment and reduce your ability to help effectively. These 10 tips for better sleep can help.
Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated to keep your energy levels up.
Incorporate gentle movement, such as yoga or stretching, to release tension and recharge your body.
5. Remind yourself of your “why”
Reflect on the reasons you’re helping and the positive impact you’re making.
Keeping this in mind can sustain your motivation, even during challenging times.
Remember that small actions matter — whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply listening, your contributions make a real difference.
How to help after natural disaster FAQs
How can I help a friend through a natural disaster?
Helping a friend through a natural disaster requires a mix of emotional support and practical assistance. Start by checking in with them regularly, either through calls, texts, or visits. Let them know you’re thinking of them and ask how they’re doing. Listening without judgment is one of the most powerful ways to provide emotional support (here are eight tips to be a better listener).
Then, offer hands-on support. Here are a few ways you might be able to pitch in:
Bring them groceries or meals
Research government aid programs that can provide support
Help them find clothing, supplies, or anything else they might need in the near-term
Lastly, keep their emotional needs in mind. Encourage them to seek professional counseling if they’re struggling, and remind them that it’s okay to grieve.
It’s also important to provide long-term support. Recovery from a disaster doesn’t end when the immediate crisis is over. Continue to check in with your friend in the weeks and months that follow. Offer help with rebuilding efforts, organizing paperwork, or simply being there to listen as they process what’s happened.
Your consistent presence and care can make a significant difference in their recovery.
How do I support loved ones after a disaster?
When a loved one experiences a natural disaster, it’s important to be patient and understanding. The first step is to show them that they’re not alone. Try sending them an empathetic message, such as, “I’m so sorry for everything you’re going through. I’m here for you no matter what.”
Next, offer emotional and practical support. Give them space to share their feelings without judgment and try not to offer advice unless they specifically ask for it. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel a wide range of emotions, especially during such a trying time.
In addition, you might try to look for practical ways to make their days easier. Help with simple tasks like running errands or cooking meals, and if they’ve lost their home or belongings, assist them with finding a temporary place to live, or replace their essentials.
How do you take care of yourself after a natural disaster?
Taking care of yourself after a natural disaster begins with acknowledging your emotions. You might feel overwhelmed, sad, angry, or anxious after such a terrifying event. Give yourself permission to process these feelings and remember to go easy on yourself — recovery takes time.
Make sure to prioritize your basic needs, such as getting enough rest, drinking water, and eating well. These simple acts can help restore a sense of stability. Connecting with others is also important — talk to friends, family, or support groups about your experience. Sharing your feelings can lighten the emotional load and remind you that you’re not alone.
Mindfulness practices such as deep breathing or meditation can be especially helpful for staying in the present moment and remaining calm. (If you’re new to the practice, here are five simple ones to try.)
Also, while it’s important to stay informed, be aware of your media consumption. Constant exposure to disaster coverage can increase stress, so set strict boundaries and follow hem..
If you’re struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. A counselor or therapist can help you navigate feelings of trauma or grief. Gentle physical activity, like walking or yoga, can also aid your recovery by releasing tension and boosting your mood.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and to take small, manageable steps toward healing each day.
What is most needed after a natural disaster?
The needs after a natural disaster can vary depending on the severity of the situation, but certain essentials are almost always in high demand. Immediate necessities like food, clean water, clothing, and temporary shelter are critical for those displaced or affected, as is access to first aid and medical care. Many people also benefit from mental health support.
Of course, donating money is also an effective way to help. You can give to disaster relief organizations or to individuals in need—whatever makes you most comfortable.
Sometimes, volunteers are needed to help with disaster clean-up, or you could consider donating tools or supplies to help with those efforts. Additionally, survivors benefit greatly from emotional support and community-driven initiatives, such as fundraisers or donation drives, which help them feel less isolated during recovery.
What not to do after a natural disaster?
Certain actions can unintentionally cause harm or add stress to those affected, and of course, you don’t want to do that. For example, traveling to the disaster area unannounced can overwhelm local resources and disrupt organized relief efforts. If you want to help on-site, coordinate with local authorities or relief organizations first.
Avoid sending unnecessary items like used clothing, random household goods, or perishable foods unless specifically requested. Instead, consider a financial donation, which organizations can use to purchase what they need.
Also, be mindful about spreading misinformation about the disaster, especially on social media, as this can lead to confusion or panic. Doublecheck your facts before you post anything.
Respecting the boundaries of those affected is crucial. Survivors may not immediately know what they need or may decline offers of help at first. Be patient and avoid pressuring them to accept assistance or process their emotions in a certain way. Everyone copes with disasters differently, and respecting their pace is key.
Finally, remember not to neglect your own well-being. Helping others is commendable, but overextending yourself can lead to burnout. Take time to rest, recharge, and ask for help if you need it. Intentional and thoughtful support is far more effective than trying to do too much all at once.
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