DEAR HARRIETTE: There was a horrible explosion in my neighborhood recently, and many people got displaced. I feel so bad for them, even though I didn't know any of them. I want to help in some way, but I have limited funds. What can I do to help people who have lost everything? -- Wanting to Help, Harlem, N.Y.
DEAR WANTING TO HELP: For those who don't know, the tragedy in question was an explosion that destroyed two apartment buildings, killed eight people and injured many more. Investigations are continuing as we go to press. This is truly a sad story for many people.
The good news is that contributions small and large are extremely helpful for those who lost loved ones, were injured or lost their homes. Several crowdsourcing sites have set up means to donate in any amount you might like. One site that has waived its fees is eastharlemexplosionfund.mydagsite.com. There are also Harlem-based businesses and churches that are collecting goods. You may want to donate clothing, canned food or even furniture to people who have lost everything. Go through your personal inventory to see what you can spare. Your items might be as good as dollars. One article that points to several ways to give is huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/18/harlem-explosion-help_n_4981153.html.