- NC's cost for Hurricane Helene damage is nearly $60 billion, state says
- State to develop drone program to better respond to disasters like Helene, Florence
- South Carolina residents face deadline to get storm debris out to the curb after Hurricane Helene
- SCDOT to pick up Hurricane Helene debris for a final day in South Carolina
- Hurricane Helene destroyed this county's only hospital. Now, an urgent care facility is caring for the community.
How to help those affected by Florence
CHARLOTTE (WJZY) – Communities have been devastated by Tropical Storm Florence, which still threatens to dump up to 15 inches of rain on the Carolinas.
If you’re looking to make a difference, here’s how you can help those impacted by the storm.
DONATE
FEMA says cash donations offer the most flexibility for charities and nonprofits to address urgent needs. People are urged to not donate unsolicited goods such as used clothing, miscellaneous household items, medicine or perishable foodstuffs at this time to avoid drawing away valuable volunteer labor, transportation and warehouse space.
Charity Navigator has compiled a list of highly-rated organizations planning to respond in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Florence. These organizations will provide assistance to the communities affected by the storm.
General Aid and Relief
Financial Aid for Families
Food and Hunger Relief
Housing and Shelter
Animal Care
UPDATE: American Humane’s team of first responders coordinated an evacuation of 72 cats out of the path of #HurricaneFlorence. Our teams are ready to help the millions of animals still at risk. Please make an emergency gift today. https://t.co/Nm7rq9mvxp pic.twitter.com/be3DGme1ad
— American Humane (@AmericanHumane) September 12, 2018
Those interested in donating can also support the official GoFundMe Hurricane Florence Relief fund here. GoFundMe has also curated a hub that includes verified campaigns and individual fundraisers for victims.
#HurricaneFlorence is making its way toward the coast & those in its path are making preparations for potentially catastrophic rain. In anticipation of this historic storm, we’ve created a centralized hub for the verified GoFundMes helping those impacted. https://t.co/vsG5q76HKj
— GoFundMe (@gofundme) September 13, 2018
VOLUNTEER
FEMA urges those wishing to volunteer to not self-deploy, as it could negatively impact first responders and their missions. Potential volunteers are asked to register with a voluntary or charitable organization. FEMA also notes that there will be volunteer needs for many months after the disaster, so those wishing to help should sign up now.