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After Hurricane Harvey, money more important than other donations

Posted at 6:14 PM, Aug 29, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-30 12:10:18-04

Las Vegas-area charitable organizations say in times of disaster, money is the best donation to give.

Charities have been dealing with an influx of calls following the disastrous storm in Texas. 

People are opening their hearts, but unfortunately there are some items they cannot accept. 

The American Red Cross, for example, cannot accept individual donations of food, used clothes, or furniture. 

"That kind of thing creates more challenges with our volunteers that want to be there in the shelters supporting the clients," said Heidi Ruster, the regional executive for the American Red Cross of Nevada and Utah. 

Ruster said money is also more beneficial because the organization can boost the value of a single dollar. For example, one could spend $3 on a case of water to donate to the Red Cross, or they could donate $3. With the $3, the Red Cross could buy 3 to 4 times the amount of water, according to Ruster. 

"The easiest way is to really make sure you give financial support so the individuals there get exactly what they need," she said. 

A list of ways to get involved with donation efforts can be found here.