Haiti Earthquake: How to Help

Haitians fleeing a destroyed building. Photo by AP

Lend a hand.

The Caribbean nation of Haiti is in an emergency. Since a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck on Tuesday afternoon, the country has been in a state of chaos, with thousands of buildings toppled and countless trapped beneath the rubble. Here's what you can do to help out.

First off, those worried about loved ones in the area should contact the State Department right away. An operations center has been set up with the number 808 477-4747.

The American Red Cross is leading the way in assistance, pledging $200,000 in relief. They're also expecting a huge demand for basic necessities like food, water, clothing, shelter and medical services, so they need your help right away.

You can either text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate a quick $10 through your cell phone bill, or head to the Red Cross website to donate more.

The United Nations World Food Program says it is "already on the scene, mobilizing emergency food assistance to families." To help with their efforts, make a donation here.

Or, if you happen to be a registered nurse, National Nurses United is calling on all those capable to join in the disaster relief. The organization hopes to send nurses to various sites in order to provide much-needed short-term emergency care.