What can we do to help?

I love SXM so much and am heartbroken over all that has happened. I am sure that there is many of us that would like to help, but are not sure what we can do. Is there anyone out there that could let us know the best ways we could help?

Honestly, not much at this time. Hopefully there will be a legitimate and verifiable charitable organization to donate to soon. With no flights in or out at this time, getting there is not really an option. Many years ago when they were hit hard I contacted the Red Cross on the island as I wanted to physically be there to help in any way. Other than asking for $$ donations at that time, nothing one could do.

Netherlands Red Cross and French Red Cross....

Here is a link to the Dutch Red Cross:
https://www.rodekruis.nl/

If you use google chrome it will translate the page for you nicely. Once there you can see there is a direct donation link.

Important Note: There seemingly is a Red Cross Chapter on the Island but there a strange things happening with their internet domain "redcross-sxm.org". If you try and visit the designated website you will be redirected to a Facebook page selling cosmetics.

Obviously something wonky going on there, I would not trust it. I would avoid that and their email info@sxm-redcross.org as well...at least until and if it gets cleared up.

Michael and I intend to send money to several people we know down there. They can either use it for themselves or disperse it. It won't be too much but if I can help at least one person in St Martin, I will be happy.

Here is the link to the French Red Cross. I wish we could get this thread made a sticky so anyone who wishes to donate can do so directly.

As someone who has worked in the aftermath on many natural disasters, I can tell you these events bring out the best in most people and unfortunately the worst in others.
This is an emotional time for many of us. St Martin holds a very special place in our hearts and seeing the devastation is emotionally traumatic. Which makes us prime targets for scammers. Because somewhere there is some scumbag sitting in an internet cafe crafting a story about how the looters have cleared the shelves of the pharmacy and selling critical medications on blackmarket....... DON'T TAKE THE BAIT!! Make sure you know who you are giving money to!