Here's how Atlantans can help Louisiana flood victims

More than 40,000 homes have been damaged and more than a dozen deaths reported in the ongoing flooding of southeastern Louisiana, forcing thousands of residents to flee.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the flood has been classified as a once-in-every-500-years event.

The flood is now the worst natural disaster to strike the United States since Hurricane Sandy four years ago, the Red Cross says.

If you're in metro Atlanta and interested in helping out, here's what you can do:

Provide financial help for meals and shelters to residents needing a place to sleep:

• Visit redcross.org/louisiana and and click the red "Donate Now" button to offer your financial contribution.
• You can also text LAFLOODS to 90999 to make a $10 donation with the American Red Cross.
• To help child victims, you can donate to the Gulf Coast Floods Children's Relief Fund, which is focusing its efforts on children's unique needs.
• Give to Convoy of Hope, which is providing food, water and other relief supplies.

Commit three days to assist area homeowners affected:

• Volunteer with Samaritan's Purse International Relief for a minimum stay of three days. Meals and sleeping quarters are provided, but volunteers should bring a twin size air mattress or cot, sleeping bag or linens, pillow, towels and any other personal hygiene items. For more information about appropriate apparel and how to register, visit spvolunteernetwork.samaritanspurse.org/south-central-louisiana-flood-response.

Donate items by mail (for both people and pets) to flood relief victims:

• Though United Way of Southeast Lousiana says there's no need for clothing or furniture donations at this time, there are several items you can donate, including: toiletries, infant items, pet items, cleaning kits and more. Find a more specific list of items at unitedwaysela.org/southeast-louisiana-flood-relief-donations.
• Where to send your items:United Way of Southeast LouisianaTangipahoa Regional Office725 S Morrison BlvdHammond, LA 70403

Donate items via Amazon.com to help pet victims:

• The Denham Springs Animal Shelter has an Amazon Wish List, where you can make purchases like pet beds, cages and more. The items will be shipped directly to the shelter.
• The Louisiana Bobcat Refuge is doing the same. Their Amazon Wish List includes kennels, pet food and other supplies.

Adopt a rescue from the flooding: