Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm in Florida’s Big Bend region late last week, before moving north into Georgia and the Carolinas. With winds reaching 140 mph and significant storm surges, it’s been described as one of the largest storms to hit the U.S. As of Monday, the death toll from Helene has surpassed 100 people across six states, and officials expect that toll to rise as many are still reported missing.
People are banding together to help with relief efforts to those affected and here’s how you, too, can help:
1. The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is currently on the ground, providing meals, drinks, emergency aid, emotional and spiritual care and long-term recovery services to those impacted by the storm. You can donate to the organization on their website.
2. GoFundMe
On GoFundMe, you can find many fundraisers to directly help people rebuild and recover. The platform has also created its own Hurricane Relief Fund “to provide direct relief to people in need after a hurricane,” according to its description. Over the weekend, 100 grants had been sent to survivors of Helene, with more on the way as more dollars are raised.
3. United Way
In a move to meet the critical needs of those impacted, United Way has activated a Helene Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund. This will support United Way’s efforts in local communities to mobilize resources to meet the critical humanitarian needs and long-term recovery efforts. You can contribute to the fund on their website.
4. Florida Disaster Fund
This is the official private fund from the state dedicated to helping communities following an emergency or disaster event. There are many ways to contribute to the fund, from online to PayPal. If you prefer to donate by check, you can mail it to: Volunteer Florida Foundation, Attn: Florida Disaster Fund, 1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250, Tallahassee, FL 32308.
5. Humane Society Emergency Animal Relief Fund
How about displaced animals as a result of the hurricane? The Humane Society’s Animal Rescue Team is on the ground across the Southeastern U.S., transporting animals to safety and helping devastated shelters, as well as providing food, resources and veterinary care in hard-hit regions. You can donate on their website.
6. American Red Cross
Hundreds of American Red Cross disaster workers have been deployed to provide support to people in need. The organization is working with community partners and local officials, in addition to distributing meals, relief supplies and opening shelters for evacuees. You can contribute to Helene relief efforts on their website.
7. World Central Kitchen
Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen is serving meals to victims and responders affected by Helene across the southeast. In fact, the nonprofit began providing food less than 12 hours after the hurricane made landfall in the town of Steinhatchee, FL. You can donate to World Central Kitchen on their website.
8. Save the Children
With a focus on children’s health, education and safety, Save the Children’s Emergency Fund has been activated to get supplies into the hands of families that have been hardest hit by the storm. This includes hygiene kits, diapers and baby wipes, as well as classroom cleaning kits for schools and child care centers. Donate through their website here.