Sure you can send money to the red cross but if really want to get on the ground and help out here is some information:
American Red Cross — The Louisiana Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross requests assistance from anyone willing to help, especially people with medical or mental health backgrounds. Call (225) 291-4533 or toll-free (866) GET-INFO. Volunteer packets are available at www.batonrouge.redcross.org.
Volunteers unable to get through on busy phones lines can go to the chapter office at 10201 Mayfair Drive.
Salvation Army — The Baton Rouge office, 7361 Airline Highway, is setting up warehouse distributions in Baton Rouge to send supplies and aid to the New Orleans area. They need people physically able to unload trucks and help organize supplies. To help, please call volunteer coordinator Karen Hills at (225) 355-4483.