10/7/2024
After a disaster like Hurricane Helene, we all want to help. While donating clothes, food, and other items is appreciated, relief groups and state agencies are asking everyone to hold off on sending physical donations right now.
When disasters strikes, the best way to help with immediate recovery is by sending cash donations to trusted charities or state-led relief funds.
Cash donations allow responce agencies to quickly meet the specific needs of survivors and communities. It gives groups the flexibility to purchase goods locally to support the local economy and get essential resources to those in need immediately.
Physical goods like clothes, toys, furniture, food, etc, can overwhelm local agencies, cause storage issues, and take responders away from critical recovery work.
Coordinate any donation or volunteer efforts through an accredited organization.
Donate cash: The best way to help immediately after a disaster is by donating to reputable agencies which can be found on each State's website. Cash donations help agencies buy exactly what’s needed and adapt to changing circumstances on the ground.
Hold off on sending goods and supplies: Material supplies can cause major problems when they arrive at the wrong time and in large quantities. Please wait for official requests before sending physical items to make sure your contribution is useful.
Volunteer the Right Way: If you want to volunteer, check with local authorities or relief organizations to see where and how help is needed. Sometimes the best way to volunteer is from home—organizing donation drives for cash or supplies once needs are clearly identified.
Remember, your heart is in the right place, and giving the right way can make sure communities get the support they need without having to manage unneeded items. Check each State's official website for information on how you can make a real difference in the recovery from Hurricane Helene.