Natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires have wreaked havoc on many parts of the United States over the past few years. Tragedy can befall any of us in a split second, and when it does, the rest of us must pitch in and help. The quality of life for those affected by natural disasters will be determined by one major factor -- the continued response and volunteer efforts of fellow Americans.

CMT One Country and its partner organizations will continue to make available the most reliable resources you need to make a difference in times of crisis. Below are a number of organizations that are equipped to respond immediately to the needs of those in crisis and who will continue to support them long after the disaster has struck and rebuilding continues.

To donate time or money to those affected by natural disasters, visit these organizations online:

America's Second Harvest: The Nation's Food Bank Network

www.secondharvest.org

The America's Second Harvest Network of more than 200 member food banks and food-rescue organizations provides relief supplies to emergency feeding centers serving disaster victims. http://secondharvest.org/how_we_work/programs_we_support/disaster_relief.html.

Habitat for Humanity

www.habitat.org

Families left homeless by disasters and refugees returning to their homelands face an uncertain future and usually confront dire housing needs as they struggle to rebuild their lives. Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) recognizes the need to provide shelter and housing solutions to help these families recover. https://www.habitat.org/cd/ohd/gik_involvement.aspx. You can also choose to donate money at this site.

Hands On Network

www.handsonnetwork.org

Area clean-up. Removing trees. Distributing blankets and clothing. Caring for lost pets. These are just a few of the activities that Hands On Network volunteers can provide to areas affected by disaster. Organize a group (church, civic club, friends, neighbors) in your area and schedule a service trip. To find out more about projects in the Gulf Coast, visit www.handsongulfcoast.org or www.handsonneworleans.org. Projects and activities change daily.

American Red Cross

www.redcross.org

You can help victims of any disaster across the country by making a contribution to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund which is used to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to those in need.

Also, consider donating blood or volunteering at your local Red Cross chapter. To find the chapter nearest you, visit http://www.redcross.org/where/chapts.asp and enter your zip code.

Mercy Corps

www.mercycorps.org

Mercy Corps, an international relief organization driven by spiritual and humanitarian values, continues to help families rebuild their lives. To find out how and to donate to their many projects in the Gulf region, visit www.mercycorps.org.

The Salvation Army

www.salvationarmyusa.org

Whether it be a local incident or a major disaster, The Salvation Army staff and volunteers are often the first on the scene and the last to depart, honoring a century-old commitment to serve those in need, at the time of need and at the place of need. To support the Salvation Army in its efforts, visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) to make a donation.