The American Red Cross is responding to an unprecedented natural catastrophe even as it sheltered more than 63,000 people, in 163 shelters who evacuated prior to Hurricane Rita's landfall.
Estimated Cost: The American Red Cross estimates that Hurricane Katrina relief efforts will exceed $2 billion, meeting the urgent needs of nearly one million families in three key areas:
- Food and Shelter — $744 million
- Emergency Financial Assistance to Disaster Survivors — $1.4 billion
- Physical and Mental Health Services — $78 million
As of Sept. 22, 2005, approximately $693.4 million has been spent already or has been committed to meet emergency needs in the wake of Katrina.
Funds Received (As of Sept. 23, 2005): The Red Cross has received $891.3 million in gifts and pledges for the hurricane relief effort, of which approximately 33 percent is in pledges and an estimated $348 million has been received online.
The Red Cross has a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for its effective use of donations. At least 91 cents of every dollar donated to the American Red Cross goes directly to assist disaster victims.
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