Rebuilding Hope: How You Can Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our neighbors in western North Carolina need help. Communities are facing unprecedented challenges, and immediate support is crucial. There are numerous ways to contribute, whether through financial donations to local disaster relief funds or by volunteering with organizations actively working on the ground. Here are key opportunities to help affected individuals and communities, from providing emergency aid to ensuring the safety of animals in crisis. Join us in making a difference as we work together to rebuild and restore hope in the aftermath of this devastating storm.

Donate:

  • North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund
    • This fund, with assistance from the United Way of North Carolina, helps to provide immediate, unmet needs through reimbursements to nonprofits working with affected individuals in impacted communities. Contributions can be made online by a secure link through the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund website.
  • Salvation Army Disaster Services
    • The Salvation Army is responding to widespread devastation in areas, including western North Carolina, by providing emergency aid, food, drinks, emotional and spiritual care, and critical supplies. 100% of donations are applied to the disaster operation selected. Donate to Hurricane Helene efforts now!
  • International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
    • IFAW is a global nonprofit, helping animals and people thrive together by restoring and protecting natural habitats. Their team has deployed to evacuate and protect animals in Hurricane Helene’s path. Supply food, veterinary supplies and daily care for animals in crisis by donating online.
  • Samaritan’s Purse
    • Boone, North Carolina, is home to Samaritan’s Purse international headquarters. Their town and surrounding communities are in dire need of relief. They have deployed a 20-bed Emergency Field Hospital—designed as an emergency room triage unit—in the town of Linville. Samaritan’s Purse is also coordinating air relief to impacted locations, delivering necessities. Make a gift to help their team respond to victims of natural disasters, like Hurricane Helene.
  • North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
    • This association of organizations bands to alleviate the impact of disaster. Member organizations cover a broad range of missions and technical expertise, working together for more effective delivery of aid. Give to the organization of your choosing online.

Volunteer:

  • All Hands and Hearts
    • All Hands and Hearts has deployed teams in Florida and North Carolina to assess damage and clear debris following Hurricane Helene. Based in Asheville, they are coordinating with local partners to help restore safety and access despite challenges like power outages and limited cell service. Apply to volunteer!
  • American Red Cross
    • The Red Cross offers various volunteer positions to support disaster response and health services. The Disaster Action Team (DAT) responds to around 65,000 emergencies annually, providing training to volunteers who assist in sheltering displaced residents. Healthcare professionals can join the Disaster Health Services team to deliver essential care during large-scale disasters. Additional roles include Blood Donor Ambassadors, who support donors during blood drives, and Blood Transportation Specialists, who ensure timely delivery of blood products to hospitals. Find volunteer opportunities in western North Carolina.
  • Hands On Asheville-Buncombe
    • Hurricane Helene has caused significant destruction in Western North Carolina, but Hands On Asheville-Buncombe, the United Way’s Volunteer Center, is dedicated to leading the volunteer response to aid recovery. Join them in rebuilding and restoring hope by selecting a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests!