How You Can Help Boston and West

It has been a long and tragic week for many Americans. One week ago, at approximately 2:20 p.m., the Boston Marathon was rocked by two bombings that killed three and injured more than 180 runners and spectators. Only two days later, a fertilizer plant in West, Texas exploded, killing at least 15 and injuring approximately 160.

AP/Reuters

Living in a city of philanthropy, many D.C.-area residents want to know: What can we do to help? The answer? Donate … but, watch out for scams. Unfortunately, even in the most dire of circumstances, there are still those looking to make a quick buck. So only contribute to established charities with a 501(c)(3) status, such as those listed below.

Support for Boston and West, Texas

Firefighters conduct search and rescue of an apartment destroyed by an explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas, Thursday, April 18, 2013. (AP Photo/LM Otero.)

• Limbs for Life: Text LIMBS to 20222 to make a $10 donation to “Limbs for Life” or go here.

• The Red Cross is collecting funds to support victims and first responders: Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation or go here.

• The Salvation Army is seeking financial contributions in order to support survivors and first responders for both tragedies: Boston Marathon Relief  and West Explosion.
  

Boston-specific charities

A Boston Red Sox cap left at a makeshift memorial on the Boston Marathon route, April 18, 2013, in Boston. (Don Emmert/AFP/Getty Images)

• Boston Children’s Hospital has set up a “Marathon Program” and an “Emergency and Trauma Fund” for this and future incidents.

• Massachusetts General Hospital is accepting donations for emergency services.

• New England Patriots’ Kraft family will match up to $100,000 in donations made.

• The One Fund Boston has been set up, by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino.

 
As we hear of DC-area events, charities or donation sites, we will update this article.