How You Can Help Boston Marathon Victims and Their Families

There are many ways we can take part and help those affected by the Boston Marathon explosions. Here's your chance to do something. Check out these five ways to get involved in the effort to help the victims and families of the explosion.

Boston vigil
(Image credit: Marie Claire)

The two bomb blasts that erupted at the Boston Marathon finish line on Monday have left at least three killed, more than 170 injured, and a nation shaken up. As live video and news reports swarmed the internet and broadcast stations that sad afternoon, President Obama took to the podium to express his condolences for the victims and their families while ensuring that justice will be served. Thankfully, good samaritans rushed to the sides of those injured while medical personnel quickly descended upon the scene to save lives. There are many ways we can take part and help those affected by the Boston Marathon explosions, and here's your chance to do something. Check out these five ways to get involved in the effort to help the victims and families of the Boston Marathon attack.

Help the Salvation Army provide food and counseling to first responders in Boston by becoming a volunteer, here.

Consider opening your home to victims who are now stranded because of the bombing.

Donate blood at a later time to ensure the blood banks have enough for the victims.

Send in all images, video, tips, and witness accounts to the FBI by calling the FBI's hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI, then select prompt #3, or call 1-800-494-TIPS.

For people outside of Boston, donate to The One Fund Boston, Inc., the fund started by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino to help those most affected by the tragic event. Donate, here.