The Importance of Donating Following Hurricane Helene
At McGill, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. We understand the immense challenges facing the communities impacted, and we are committed to doing our part to support recovery efforts.
McGill is actively participating by donating essential items and encouraging others to join in helping those in need.
How Donations Help in a Time of Crisis
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the impact on communities across Western North Carolina, Eastern Tennessee, and Southwestern Virginia is immense. Many families have lost their homes, and vital resources are in short supply. Relief organizations are working hard, but they need the community’s help. Donating items is a powerful way to provide immediate support and contribute to the long-term recovery of those affected.
What Items are Good to Donate?
To maximize the impact of your donation, focus on the following high-demand items:
Non-Perishable Food: Canned goods, shelf-stable snacks, and meal kits are essential to feed those displaced by the storm.
Water: Clean bottled water is critical, as local water supplies may be contaminated.
Clothing and Bedding: New or gently used clothes, blankets, and sleeping bags provide warmth and comfort.
Hygiene Products: Soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and feminine hygiene items are crucial for personal health and well-being.
Baby Supplies: Diapers, formula, wipes, and baby food are essential for families with young children.
Medical Supplies: First aid kits, bandages, and over-the-counter medications help address injuries and illnesses in the aftermath.
Cleaning Supplies: Disinfectants, gloves, mops, and trash bags help in cleanup and recovery efforts.
Where to Donate: Western North Carolina, Eastern Tennessee, and Southwestern Virginia
If you’re in the area and want to make a difference, here are some trusted local organizations accepting donations for Hurricane Helene relief:
Western North Carolina
MANNA FoodBank
Website: https://www.mannafoodbank.org/
What They Need: Non-perishable food, hygiene products, and baby supplies. MANNA distributes emergency food and supplies to affected communities in Western North Carolina.
Asheville Humane Society
Website: https://www.ashevillehumane.org/
What They Need: Pet food, blankets, crates, and cleaning supplies. This organization supports pets and their families in need during the disaster.
Eastern Tennessee
Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee
Website: https://secondharvestetn.org/
What They Need: Non-perishable food, bottled water, and hygiene kits. Second Harvest is a major distributor of emergency food supplies in the region.
Appalachian Outreach
Website: https://www.aoministry.org/
What They Need: Clothing, household items, and cleaning supplies. Appalachian Outreach serves communities affected by natural disasters, offering essential resources for recovery.
Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM)
Website: https://karm.org/
What They Need: Clothing, blankets, and hygiene products. KARM offers shelter and basic necessities to individuals and families displaced by the hurricane.
Southwestern Virginia
Feeding Southwest Virginia
Website: https://www.feedingswva.org/
What They Need: Canned food, snacks, and bottled water. This organization distributes food and emergency supplies to communities affected by Hurricane Helene.
Appalachian Service Project (ASP)
Website: https://asphome.org/
What They Need: Tools, cleaning supplies, and building materials. ASP helps families rebuild homes damaged by the hurricane, focusing on long-term recovery.
Additional Donation Sites Across the Region
Haywood Christian Ministry
Website: https://www.haywoodministry.org/
What They Need: Non-perishable food, clothing, and furniture. This organization supports individuals and families across Western North Carolina with essential resources during recovery.
Crisis Assistance Ministry – Charlotte, NC
Website: https://www.crisisassistance.org/
What They Need: Financial donations, furniture, and household items. Crisis Assistance Ministry provides critical support for those who have lost their homes and belongings.
North Carolina Association of Regional Councils of Governments (NCARCOG) Helene Recovery Efforts
Website: https://civiclf.square.site/
What They Need: Financial donations are being accepted to help local government communities, employees, and supporting organizations recover from the hurricane. Donations will be distributed through partnerships with Civic Credit and Local Government Credit Unions.
App State Disaster Relief Fund
Website: https://www.appstate.edu/
What They Need: Financial donations are being accepted to assist students and faculty who have been impacted by Hurricane Helene.
National Relief Organizations
You can also support national organizations that are providing relief to areas impacted by Hurricane Helene:
American Red Cross: Donate to ongoing relief efforts here. The Red Cross provides immediate shelter, food, and supplies for those affected by the disaster.
GlobalGiving Hurricane Relief Fund: Support grassroots hurricane relief efforts here. Donations go toward emergency supplies and long-term rebuilding efforts.
United Way Hurricane Helene Fund: Donate to support long-term community recovery here. United Way focuses on helping communities rebuild and recover after natural disasters.
You Can Make a Difference Today!
In times of crisis, every donation counts. Whether you contribute essential supplies, financial aid, or volunteer your time, your support is crucial to helping communities recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
Local organizations across Western North Carolina, Eastern Tennessee, and Southwestern Virginia are working tirelessly to meet the needs of those affected, and they need your help. Consider donating today to provide relief to families, children, and vulnerable populations as they rebuild their lives.
