How to Help in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in late September, is now considered the fourth deadliest hurricane to hit the U.S. mainland since 1950 and the deadliest since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm caused widespread destruction across several southeastern states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama. Communities are in urgent need of assistance as they grapple with the aftermath.

Devastating Impact

• At least 215 people have died, with more than half of the deaths occurring in North Carolina, where several feet of fast-moving floodwaters wiped out entire communities.

• Hundreds of people are still missing, and authorities are facing challenges in identifying some of the deceased.

• Roughly 784,000 homes and businesses remain without power across multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina.

• Tens of thousands of residents, particularly in western North Carolina, are without running water, further complicating recovery efforts.

How You Can Help

While there may be a desire to send physical items like food and blankets, relief organizations stress that financial donations are more effective at this time. Here are ways to contribute:

1. Cash Donations

Monetary contributions are the most efficient way to provide aid in the immediate aftermath. Donations allow relief organizations to buy exactly what is needed and get it to the areas most affected. Reputable organizations like the American Red Cross are currently accepting donations for the relief effort.

2. Volunteer

For those interested in offering their time, the Red Cross is looking for volunteers. More information can be found by visiting redcross.org/volunteer. FEMA has also provided a list of other organizations throughout the Southeast that may need volunteer support.

3. Blood Donations

The hurricane has caused the cancellation of numerous blood drives across the Southeast, resulting in a significant shortage of donations. Over 2,500 donations have gone uncollected. Individuals outside of the affected areas are encouraged to schedule blood donation appointments through RedCrossBlood.org or via the Blood Donor App to help replenish critical supplies.