10 Ways to help in the wake of Hurricane Helene

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, there are numerous ways to help the Asheville and greater North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida communities recover and rebuild.

President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance that is available for survivors in designated counties in Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.

Here are 10 meaningful actions you can take for the worst hit areas:

Donate to Local Relief Organizations: Contribute to Asheville-based organizations like the Western North Carolina Community Foundation or the American Red Cross – Western North Carolina Chapter that provide disaster relief. Also the East Tennessee Foundation and East Tennessee Department of Military and Disaster Recovery Fund of Northwest Florida. Georgia emergency relief is here.

South Carolina has Disaster Recovery Resources for Hurricane Helene here.
Support Local Food Banks: Food insecurity increases after disasters. Donate non-perishable food or funds to local food banks, such as MANNA FoodBank, which serves Asheville and surrounding areas. Also, the well-known World Central Kitchen which is always right on the spot in time of need is a very good cause where feeding those in times of need is requited. The Second Harvest Food Bank of Eastern Tennessee is a great organization. Florida Food Banks is accepting donations as well as Catholic Charities Food Assistance. Georgia Food bank is here. Mission Georgia is a big help. Feeding the Carolinas helps North and South Carolina.
Volunteer for Cleanup Efforts: Join cleanup efforts organized by groups like Asheville GreenWorks or local government initiatives. You can help clear debris, remove fallen trees, or assist with restoring damaged infrastructure. The Crisis Clean-Up Hotline (844) 965-1386 has been established for survivors who need assistance with clean-up efforts. This service is at no cost to the survivors who are requesting assistance.

4. Provide Temporary Shelter: If you have space, consider offering temporary housing for those displaced by the storm. You can coordinate with platforms like Airbnb Open Homes in NC or local shelters. And Airbnb homes in TN, also Airbnb’s Northwest Florida. Georgia AirBnb info is here. South Carolina has Airbnb’s here.

5. Assist with Animal Rescue and Sheltering: Help local animal shelters like Brother Wolf Animal Rescue or Asheville Humane Society by volunteering, fostering, or donating supplies to care for displaced pets. The Small Breed Rescue in Eastern Tennessee will help with pets. Also North Florida Animal Rescue. Georgia has Fur Kids, animal rescue. The Charleston Animal Society is there for your pets.

6. Donate Blood: Blood supplies often run low after disasters. Donating blood to the American Red Cross or The Blood Connection can support local hospitals in their increased medical response. The East Tennessee American Red Cross needs blood donations. One Blood Florida is available, too. The Georgia Region Red Cross is accepting blood donations.

7. Contribute to Housing Rebuilding Funds: Many homes may need to be repaired or rebuilt. Consider donating to rebuilding initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity Asheville Area and Habitat for Humanity Tennessee to support long-term recovery efforts. Also Georgia’s Habitat for Humanity could of course use donations and hands-on help.

8. Shop or Dine Locally: Support local businesses, especially those impacted by the hurricane. Spend your money at small businesses in Asheville, which helps them recover economically.

9. Host or Attend Fundraisers: Organize or participate in local fundraising events to raise money for disaster relief. Events like benefit concerts or charity drives can bring the community together and provide crucial funds.

10. Spread Awareness on Social Media: Use your platforms to amplify calls for help, share donation links, and keep people informed about the recovery process. Raising awareness can inspire others to act. The U.S. Government has a website that can lead you in other directions such as info on FEMA relief, finding loved ones, financial assistance and more.