Although we were swept up in the excitement of Penn State canceling class for an afternoon, Hurricane Sandy devastated many parts of the East coast. Long Island, Staten Island, the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City, and New York City were among the hardest hit cities. People have been suffering without electricity, water, heat, gasoline, food, and shelter. There are so many ways for Penn Staters to help — even without being in those areas.

Here are a few ways that the Penn State community can show support and help contribute to the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts.

The American Red Cross is known for providing relief and care for those in need. There are so many ways to assist through Red Cross.

• Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10
• Donate money online here 
• www.iTunes.com/RedCross – donate up to $200 with the simple click of a button using your account. iTunes is transferring 100% of their donation to Red Cross. This can easily be done from several devices including a computer, iPhone,  iPod touch, and iPad.
• Hundreds of blood drives on the East Coast have been canceled, but blood is still needed. Make an appointment to give blood or even volunteer at a drive. Find out more information here.

Jersey Mike’s, a sub shop chain throughout New Jersey, is asking for nonperishable food items and clothing donations at all of their locations. Find just a few pairs of old pants, shirts and sweatshirts you have not worn in years and drop it off at the location here downtown.

In the wake of Sandy many Jersey Shore towns were devastated. We will be collecting non-perishable food items & clothing for those in need.

— Jersey Mikes PSU (@JerseyMikesPSU) November 2, 2012

Volunteering is a huge way that anyone can help. If you going to be in the New York or New Jersey area, there are several shelters and food banks you can lend a helping hand to. Check out the Hurricane Sandy Relief Foundation website for a list of places in your location that you can go to. The NYC government website has a list as well.

The Salvation Army is serving those affected by the immense blow of Sandy by hosting shelters to provide clothing, serve food and give beds to those who have been displaced due to this disaster as well as providing clean-up kits and emotional support. Visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or donate $10 to the Salvation Army by texting “STORM” to 80888

Please help any way you can. As a Penn State community with the number one student philanthropy, we know how much this relief can save lives.