Severe Storms Hit The South: How You Can Help

Devastating storms have ripped through the southern United States this week, leaving more than 200 people dead and communities crippled in its wake.

Dozens of tornadoes swept across Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia, Mississippi, Georgia and Kentucky.

The hardest hit areas are in Alabama, where a million people are without power in the aftermath of the worst tornadoes since 1974.

Across the country, Americans are asking how to help Southerners in need. Here at HuffPost Impact, we're assembling a list of information on how to take action, which we will keep updated as the crisis unfolds.

HOW TO HELP:

• The American Red Cross has opened dozens of emergency shelters for families affected by the severe storms. You can donate online or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. To quickly contribute10, you can text "REDCROSS" to 90999.
• Samaritan's Purse is sending teams of volunteers to hard-hit areas in Alabama to offer assistance. Supporters can donate online to help the organization provide aid.
• The Salvation Army has deployed mobile feeding units to tornado-affected communities to provide meals to people in need. You can designate your online donation go to "April 2011 Tornado Outbreak" relief. Funds can also be given over the phone by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY or texting "GIVE" to 80888 (for a10 donation).
• Governor of Alabama Robert Bentley's office is accepting donations for church and community relief efforts in the wake of the massive storms. Supporters can contribute by credit card or check.

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