As the Taliban continues to consolidate control of Afghanistan, civilians and residents, especially women, are seeking assistance (opens in new tab). As people desperately try to flee, the airports and borders are in chaos as neighboring countries are hit by an influx of refugees (opens in new tab). The dire situation continues to this day, and the United States has sent thousands of troops (opens in new tab) to assist in the evacuation. So what can the average person do (opens in new tab)?

First, it may go without saying, but petitioning our elected officials and voicing our support for aid to the Afghan people will motivate them to take action. Second, learning more about the conflict and what is happening from verified news sources will continue to advocate for action and (importantly) keep the crisis on people's minds. And if you don't have the funds to help financially right now, you can sign a petition to help secure women's rights (opens in new tab), establish safe passageways (opens in new tab), and raise awareness of refugee abuses (opens in new tab).

Finally, several organizations working in Afghanistan are calling for support during this time. It helps to support organizations that already have channels to provide in-person and remote assistance, especially now that some areas are impossible for humanitarian aid workers to reach. Below are some of these organizations and details on how they can help.

Women for Women International works to provide a pathway to equality and security for women in countries like Afghanistan. They are suspending their programs to work on helping women obtain visas (opens in new tab), fundraising, helping women meet safely (opens in new tab), and calling for government assistance. They are asking for help, and some donors have pledged to match donations (opens in new tab); you can read more about Women for Women (opens in new tab) or donate directly. (opens in new tab)

If you live in D.C. or other rural areas, you may be able to offer as a volunteer to help resettled Afghans. This LIRS link (opens in a new tab) will help you determine if you live in a high traffic area and can volunteer your home and supplies. If you do not live in a location where direct services are provided to displaced persons, you may donate to the affiliate Neighbors in Need: allies in Afghanistan (opens in new tab)."

MSF is expanding its medical support from maternity care to trauma services (opens in new tab); MSF is active in Herat, Kandahar, Khost, Kunduz, and Lashkar Gah. For more information and to donate, click here (opens in new tab).

As reported by People (opens in new tab), the organization, founded in 2016, "uses frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and money to send refugees, delinquents, asylum seekers, and their families to safe, new homes." Currently, the airport in Kabul is closed, so no actual flights can be booked, but they are still accepting donations and hope to be able to get people flying again soon. This would be a viable option for those who may not have cash, but do have gift cards, canceled flight vouchers, or other alternative payment methods.

UNHCR works directly with refugees, protecting displaced persons and providing emergency assistance. The UNHCR has issued new recommendations (opens in new tab) to stop the forced return of Afghan nationals, calling on countries and advising them on how to help at the national level. New Recommendations to Stop the Forced Return of Afghan Nationals (opens in new tab). (opens in new tab)

The IRC has just launched a $10 million appeal to raise funds for the emergency response in Afghanistan. "Donations will be used to help the team provide direct assistance to displaced persons. Learn more about their work and donate here. (open in new tab)

CPJ works to protect journalists around the world. According to their calculations, at least 53 journalists have been killed in Afghanistan (open in new tab) since 2001 and 5 in 2020 CPJ is working with partners and government authorities to ensure the safety of Afghan journalists. At least 300 registered journalists are currently attempting to flee to safety, and hundreds more are under investigation. To learn more about their work and to donate, click here (opens in new tab).

As the name implies, Save the Children has been working directly for years to provide food security, safety, and other assistance to children in Afghanistan. Save the Children has stated that they are committed to helping in this critical situation, even if they have to suspend their regular services (open in new tab). More information about their activities and donations can be made here (opens in new tab).

Other organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, have been providing medical personnel and equipment in the country for decades. Wherever you donate, be sure to check with the organization and their specific activities before donating. As indicated above, the organization's social media can provide insight into how aid is being utilized and whether they are currently seeking assistance. If you do not know how else to help, you can amplify the activities of the organizations listed above.

CORRECTION: This article has been updated to reflect the ICRC's ongoing work in Afghanistan.