On August 30, 2017 one of the most catastrophic and devastating hurricanes, Hurricane Irma, hit the Florida Keys and the Caribbean. An estimated 1.2 million people have been affected and 134 deaths. With $62.87 billion in damage, it is the fourth most expensive hurricane to date.

As this powerful hurricane made its way across the neighboring countries of the U.S., reconstruction and recovery were in the back of everybody’s minds. Now that the heart-breaking hurricane is over, everybody is focusing on the long recovery and helping out in any way they can. Many people have sent money to the islands to help with the cost of reconstruction, which is the best thing people can do. Some have donated through a website called GoFundMe to give money to the Direct Impact Fund. The Red Cross coordinates willing volunteers in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Florida to be registered to be contacted by relief workers. Once they are contacted, they can lend a hand wherever work is needed. People can also send blankets, food, water, clothes, or toys to the affected areas as most people’s houses were completely destroyed and are living with barely anything left. These places have food imported from other places since there is a limited amount. Furthermore, the British Virgin Islands launched the BVI Recovery Fund that provides food, clothing, and housing for those affected.

It is not just the people who are helping — well-known retailing companies are getting involved as well. Target pledged up to $1 million for Hurricane Irma relief and Pet Smart donated $1 million to help pets and pet families in need. Animals are still being found on the streets of the affected countries with no food, water, or shelter due to this hurricane. Overall, with the drastic impact Hurricane Irma had on billions of people, the recovery continues as more and more people are contributing.