Animals Caught in Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill: How You Can Help

June 4, 2010— -- With the oil spill still not under control, oil is continuing to seep into the marshes and wetlands areas, suffocating dolphins, turtles and a variety of bird, including the brown pelicans, the Louisiana state bird.

As frustration over BP's inability to control the spill and clean up the oil grows, many groups are down in the Gulf, taking matters into their own hands, raising funds and helping directly in cleanup efforts.

If you want to help support this effort, we've compiled a list of some of the organizations that are at work in the Gulf.

The Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana is organizing food distributions for those affected by the spill. You can donate money online or volunteer your time if you live in the gulf.

The Community Center of St. Bernard provides food, hot meals and counseling to those affected by the spill. You can buy a t-shirt that says, "Save The Gulf Coast," and the proceeds go to helping the fishermen and their families.

The Catholic Charities for the Archdiocese of New Orleans has helped organized disaster relief sites where food is distributed. Mental Health assessments and vouchers to help pay utility bills are also given. You can volunteer your time or donate.

The Gulf Coast Oil Spill Volunteers Facebook group has been created to help mobilize people who want to get the training required to help in cleanup efforts. Over 8,000 members have joined the group, where they have posted information for residents in Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida.

See details from the group are here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=121928837818541&v=info