Not Home for the Holidays: You Can Help Change That

As families and friends come together to this holiday season, the team at the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) would like to give thanks to the countless number of donors who have supported recovery this year. Because of you, we have made the lives of thousands of people – all in varying stages of recovery from disasters – better. Your generosity helped give the gift of hope.

For many of us, home is at the heart of the holidays. We imagine the coziness of warm hugs. The aroma of pies baking. Decorations adorning doorways. The chatter and laughter of loved ones gathered around the table. Yet, at CDP we know there are so many who are not home for the holidays because of weather-related disasters. More than seven million people worldwide have been displaced this year alone. For them, this season will be significantly different.

So as the year draws to a close, we reflect on the vast number of these individuals, families and communities that have been impacted by the recurring, intense disasters at home and abroad. This year once again brought destruction caused by hurricanes, flooding, earthquakes and wildfires. Seeing the images, you begin to understand just how many communities are hurting … and how many seriously need our help. After all, recovery is not only about the restoration of structures and services. Successful recovery is also about individuals and families being able to rebound from their losses and sustain their overall well-being.

Even if you’ve given in the past, your help is needed now to help survivors. Donations pour in right after a disaster strikes to help with immediate relief. And this is vital. Just as vital is the need to fund the work that helps rebuild what has been lost. Recovery is a long road; you can help pave the way.

CDP focuses on medium- and long-term recovery needs, including rebuilding homes and businesses; meeting the needs of young children; and supporting mental health, among other needs. Can you think of a more crucial goal than rebuilding lives and communities this holiday season?

Thank you for considering a donation to CDP. We know you’ll have many choices for your year-end giving. We hope you will add the long-term recovery of families to your list.