Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc across the Southern United States, leaving more than 100 dead, thousands without power and many struggling to access basic necessities like food and water. Relief efforts kicked off over the weekend in multiple states, including Florida and North Carolina. If you're looking to support those impacted by this devastating storm, here’s a guide to help.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has emphasized that monetary donations are more effective than giving items like clothing and goods. Financial contributions allow aid organizations to address urgent needs quickly. FEMA also advises donating to reputable organizations, and Charity Navigator is a reliable resource for finding highly rated charities that are cost-effective and efficient.
When did Hurricane Helene hit?
Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida on Thursday evening, September 26, at approximately 11:10pm as a Category 4 storm, reported NOAA.
What areas have been most impacted?
Washington County, Tennessee
Newport, TN
Erwin, TN
Western North Carolina
Boone, NC
Asheville, NC
Chimney Rock, NC
Anderson County, SC
Central Georgia
Atlanta, GA
Valdosta, GA
Florida’s Big Bend region and several Gulf Coast cities
Perry, FL
Keaton Beach, FL
Horseshoe Beach, FL
Crystal River, FL
Treasure Island, FL
How to help Hurricane Helene survivors:
North Carolina Relief Efforts
North Carolina was one of the hardest-hit states, with over three dozen fatalities, severe flooding, washed-out roads and many residents requiring rescue. Governor Roy Cooper urged people to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, which supports nonprofits helping victims with essential items such as food, water and cleaning supplies. Another option is donating to North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NC VOAD), which lists vetted local disaster relief organizations like the American Red Cross, North Carolina Diaper Bank and Feeding North Carolina.
Florida Relief Efforts
Hurricane Helene struck Florida as a Category 4 storm, with winds reaching up to 140 mph. The storm caused extensive flooding and left more than a dozen people dead. Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Disaster Fund, which provides assistance to those impacted by the hurricane. Donations to this fund help Floridians recover from the disaster more quickly.
Georgia Relief Efforts
Georgia also faced significant damage and over a dozen storm-related deaths. The nonprofit Send Relief has been actively deploying resources to the most affected areas and collaborating with national organizations to provide coordinated assistance.
National Organizations Accepting Donations
Several national organizations are also collecting donations to help those affected by Hurricane Helene. These include The Salvation Army, American Red Cross and Americares. These organizations are well-equipped to deliver aid to affected communities across multiple states.