Social Media Spreads Good Will Amidst Hurricane Sandy Aftermath

This story comes out of Hoboken, NJ, where our own Jeff Adelson-Yan resides. Coverage of the devastation in the Northeast is harrowing, but even with power outages and standing water in many places, people are using social media to bring good will to others. By using Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, people are coming together and communicating to those who need aid with resources that are available. In Hoboken especially, the use of social media and neighborly love has really struck a chord with us.

One photo, that circulated around the Internet quickly on Thursday, showed a neighbor sharing their power with those who needed to charge their phones:

The second photo was uploaded to Instagram and showed neighbors who had set up coffee and cookies for those in their neighborhood who have been subsisting on canned food for days:

Also in Hoboken, residents set up a public Google Map that showed all the resources that neighbors had set up. Points of interest include shelters, open businesses, charging stations, where Wi-Fi is available and where volunteers were needed:

Using the power of social media and mobile gives residents in Hoboken and New York City the ability to find aid when needed. We are reminded that technology can be helpful, even in the wake of destruction. Our thoughts are with all those affected and we look forward to hearing more stories of outreach and good will in these communities.