Support Chennai flood victims

We are native of the state of Tamilnadu, currently living in Fremont, California. Chennai and Cuddalore in Tamilnadu experienced a lull from the heaviest rains in a century that have killed at least 280 people so far. Nearly half the electrical supply being cut off and telephone and transport services severely impacted. There is no drinking water, good food and even distribution of relief materials has become very hard.

We are living in the most comfortable home and watching television and reading the news online. But for many of the slum dwellers, their homes have been completely washed away. Most of the first floor of the homes and work buildings are filled with water. Either people are sitting in the open terrace or they have been moved to some relief camps. Large swaths of Chennai have come to a complete standstill.

When we saw the pictures of people living on roofs and flyovers, our hearts were moved. This is the Indian state we are from and I can't control the emotions looking at the sufferings of the people. A lot of help is needed to the city of six million people and also the coastal districts of Cuddalore and Kanchipuram.

Thankfully there are many good people trying to help the needy and they have formed many funds raising events. We are planning to go to Chennai and personally help the affected people by buying them food, blankets and clothes. If we can't go for any reasons, given the cancellation of the flights and closure of Chennai international airport, I will donate all the money raised here to NGOs or will send it to activists who are working at the grass root level.  I have many friends living there and involved in the relief measures. 

Please donate any amount you can. I will take responsibility of every dollar you contribute reaches the right person. I am taking all the guidance on this one. I understand this may be a small effort, but it will for sure make a difference in many lives.  I will post the updates here regularly.