As the Carolinas grapple with devastating flooding from Florence, residents face the arduous task of cleaning up, repairing and rebuilding homes and businesses.

If you want to help, we offer some guidance below, and a list of a few of the organizations involved in recovery efforts.

First, keep in mind …

Sending money is almost always the most efficient way to help in a disaster, according to the Center for International Disaster Information, part of the United States Agency for International Development. Otherwise, valuable time might be lost sorting through a mountain of donated goods that do not serve people’s immediate needs.

Of course, before you donate anything, it’s important to do a little research about an organization’s history and reputation. One way to do so is by checking Charity Navigator, which grades established charities based on transparency and financial health and has put together a list of those active in the recovery from Florence.