Now that Tropical Storm Helen has long passed, relief efforts are underway in earnest. Local and national organizations are coming together in western North Carolina and Asheville, now designated as major disaster areas, to help victims of the deadliest hurricane in U.S. history.
With so many organizations on the ground and dire needs for residents across the region, there are many ways to help, but some supplies are needed more urgently than others. Here are the most effective ways you can help Helen’s victims (and what not to do to get supplies to them).
More information: In a hurry: Helen’s quick guide to finding essentials in post-flood Asheville
Should I donate money or supplies?
FEMA primarily recommends cash donations in the event of a large-scale disaster. While donating supplies may seem to streamline the process, FEMA says it could complicate things. The logistics of receiving countless items of clothing, blankets, food, etc. can be complicated.
FEMA’s website states, “Sending other donations to affected areas can also complicate staff’s jobs, forcing them to sort through these unsolicited items instead of supporting local communities.” No,” he said. “Before you send supplies, make sure you know what is needed and where.”
Additionally, cash donations are the quickest way to send support and can also repair your local economy.
“Supplies will be purchased from local sources and local residents will be compensated to help rebuild,” the site states. “This kind of cash flow will help the economy recover more quickly.”
Should I go to the disaster area?
Volunteers already in the area are welcome, but driving to the area to help is out of the question.
Access to the area is strictly restricted to disaster response teams and organizations. With multiple lanes in use on many routes due to the continued risk of downed trees, power lines, or further road collapse, we are minimizing traffic to ensure the most critical supplies and volunteers reach Asheville safely. need to be suppressed.
In any case, many roads remain completely impassable, with portions of Interstate 40 and Interstate 26 washed out and repairs likely to take months. there is.
If you would like to travel to the area to search for a loved one in Buncombe County, please fill out this form provided by county officials instead. To report a missing person, call 211 within the state or 1-888-892-1162 outside the state. You can also request a medical check from your local police.
North Carolina live updates: Death toll rises to at least 115, new state report summarizes North Carolina Thursday: Cherokee cannabis business opens, worst of Helen averted, workers move to Ashe, North Carolina after Helen Need help with the building? Map the location of water, food, shelter, and WiFi Latest news on Asheville flooding: Everything you need to know about what’s happening in Western North Carolina How to help: How to help Hurricane Helen victims , learn how to donate Need help in a hurry: Find essentials in Asheville after the floods with a quick guide Helen Hot Meals You Can Provide to Survivors of Hurricane Helen: A Distribution Guide by County Asheville Floods: Nature Center, Biltmore Estate, Are other landmarks open? What you need to know about the devastation of North Carolina’s Helen floods from above: See the storm’s impact in photos and videos Western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helen Voting Guide for Residents Sign up to receive text message updates and important information in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen
What organizations accept cash donations?
American Red Cross: One of the most well-known aid organizations in the world, the Red Cross is already on the ground in Asheville, providing food, shelter, and a variety of supplies to disaster victims. Donate directly to relief efforts here. Additionally, the Red Cross is always in need of blood donations, especially after major natural disasters. Click here for more information about blood donation.
Salvation Army: Another nationally recognized organization, the Salvation Army continues to provide essential supplies to local people in need. 100% of your donations to the Salvation Army will be used to support the specific relief efforts of your choice. Our group accepts donations of items, but please check first whether you need the items you are donating. For more information, please contact disasterdonations@uss.salvationarmy.org.
United Way: Buncombe County-specific funds are available through United Way. Other local chapters are scattered throughout western North Carolina. Find your local organization here.
World Central Kitchen: The charity founded by chef Jose Andres provides meals throughout the affected areas of North Carolina. Please support this effort by donating on our website.
Citizen Times’ complete list of organizations supporting families across Western North Carolina can be found here.
When can I volunteer?
If you still want to volunteer, we recommend waiting for a while. Although recovery from Helen will take months and even years to fully complete, research shows that deaths continue to occur in hurricane-affected areas for years afterward. It is suggested that. Once roads are built and immediate needs are resolved, there are still opportunities to donate your time.
If you are eligible and would like to become an official Red Cross volunteer, please visit the Red Cross website for sign up details.
Jacob Wilt is a reporter for The Commercial Appeal. Please contact jacob.wilt@commercialappeal.com.
