Online Poker Extends Helping Hand to Hurricane Katrina Victims

In the wake of the destruction left by Hurricane Katrina on the Gulf Coast, the online poker community is stepping up and doing what it can to help those affected rebuild their lives. All across the poker world, players are digging into their bankrolls to provide donations to organizations, such as the American Red Cross, who are directly involved with the relief effort.

Most online poker rooms have organized tournaments with most, if not all, of the prize pool and entry fees going directly to charity. Some examples:

• Party Poker – Hurricane Help Tournament – September 7 -- 90% of the prize pool will go to charity PLUS Party Poker will donate an additional amount equal to the total prize pool
• PokerRoom – Online Aid Tournament – September 10-11 -- PokerRoom will make a donation to charity equal to the prize pool and will give players an option to donate part or all of their winnings
• Bodog Poker – Hurricane Katrina Benefit Tournaments – September 8-12 -- Entry fees will be donated, along with a 100% match by Bodog
• Poker Stars – Hurricane Katrina Relief Tournaments – September 12 and 14 -- Initially suggested by actor, writer, and Team Poker Stars member, Wil Wheaton, all proceeds, plus a 100% match, will go to assist in the relief efforts. Poker Stars will also offer additional prizes.

Keep in mind that these are only four examples of the many charity tournaments out there. If you have a favorite online poker room, chances are it has organized similar opportunities to donate. Simply logon to your poker account or visit the poker room’s website to find out more information.

In addition to the outreach from the online poker rooms, many popular poker websites are rallying their visitors, as well. Some examples:

• Poker Source Online, which already gives its customers the opportunity to make charitable donations to several organizations, has put out the call for its members to donate to the Red Cross Katrina relief fund, and will match every donation 100%. $20,000 has been set for the informal goal.
• Two Plus Two Publishing, home of the popular message forums, has been spreading the word for its readers to participate in the various charity tournaments, particularly the ones at Party Poker and Poker Stars.

Regardless of the means, there are plenty of opportunities to donate money, time, clothing, food, or anything one can spare. Many organizations accept donations online, and if they do not, you can find out how to donate by going to their websites. Two worthy organizations, amongst many, are the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army. To contribute directly to their hurricane relief efforts, click here for the Red Cross and here for the Salvation Army.

Originally published September 7, 2005