Millions in the U.S. Southeast are living in the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall September 26, 2024 as a Category 4 storm on the Florida Gulf Coast. According to the National Weather Service wind gusts peaked in the 45 to 60 mph range during the morning hours of September 27. Deaths from the storm have occurred in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Residents in North Carolina have been urged not to travel for their own safety and to keep roads clear for search teams that are looking to rescue stranded people. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently assessing the damage.
Ways to help
The FEMA website states that cash donations are the fastest and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery.
FEMA's Full List Of Recognized Disaster Relief Organizations
organizations taking donations:
American Red Cross: 1-800-RED-CROSS