The world watched yesterday as Notre Dame Cathedral, a symbol of France and the Catholic Church, burned in a devastating fire that toppled its spire and destroyed most of its wooden roof. The cathedral was in the midst of a large restoration process.
“What we watched burning today was architecture of global importance, an icon containing icons and treasures in a building that survived—in no particular order—crusades, reformation, revolution and two world wars,” says Brian Williams, host of MSNBC’s The 11th Hour.
Large donations are pouring in from French billionaires and companies—as much as $450 million so far. For those who want to add to that, Fast Company reports three ways to give right now:
Friends of Notre-Dame
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With offices in France and the U.S., this is the primary organization that has raised money for the restoration that was underway. The U.S. branch is a 501c3 public charity, making all gifts tax-deductible for U.S. contributors.
Fondation du Patrimoine
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This French nonprofit funds preservation of historic, cultural sites throughout France. It has established a special Notre-Dame rebuilding fund.
Basilica of the National Shrine
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The largest Roman Catholic church in North America, situated in Washington, D.C., has launched its own fundraising campaign. U.S. Catholics who want to act within the framework of their faith may find this the most fitting way. (Notre-Dame is a Catholic church, after all.)
In addition, the New York-based French Heritage Society announced a Notre-Dame Fire Restoration Fund on its website:
The hearts of all of us at French Heritage Society go out to the city of Paris and all of France in the wake of the terrible fire at the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
French Heritage Society, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, has established a fund to accept donations for the restoration work that will be necessary as a result of the devastating fire at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris.
Millions are pouring in in support of Notre Dame, but three predominantly black churches that were burned in alleged hate crimes recently in Louisiana could also use help to rebuild. You can donate to the St. Landry Parish churches through this GoFundMe fundraiser, which was set up by the Seventh District Baptist Association.
The funds will be distributed evenly among the three churches affected: St. Mary Baptist Church in Port Barre, Greater Union Baptist Church in Opelousas and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Opelousas.
When donating to any cause, always research the organization first to be sure it is reputable; be wary of any unofficial fundraisers.