The America Outdoors community is humbled and inspired to see the outfitting and guiding community come together in times of need and support those most impacted by disaster. AO members are donating to local relief efforts and leading local relief efforts, offering their gear and equipment to help operations and using their gear to support search and rescue efforts.
While much has been done the cleanup from this catastrophic event, there is no understating the devastation that was wrought in the path of Tropical Storm Helene as it crossed through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia. While much of the recover effort AO is focused on in in North Carolina and Tennessee, we remember that these are not the only impacted areas.
As focus shifts to the reestablishment of infrastructure and livelihoods wrecked by the storm, it is clear that recovery and repair efforts will take many years. Access roads, boat ramps, river corridors, and outposts all will need clearing, reconstituting, and rebuilding. America Outdoors will continue collecting and disseminating information, and connecting those with means to those in need, as the aftermath unfolds.
America Outdoors will update its online resources as we gain more information and stand up more tools for both impacted outposts and folks with means to support them.
Donate
AO is listed targeted local donations in affected counties here.
In Madison County, NC
Madison County Relief Fund
The county is now able to accept donations to the Madison County Hurricane Helene Relief Fund, which will keep these funds in the county. You can find the link on the county homepage or go directly to donate.
Walnut Fire Department River Response Team – On the French Broad. Many local outfitter staff are volunteering to help on the river operations.
Town of Hot Springs - For hurricane relief and repair for the town of Hot Springs
North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund is now accepting contributions for hurricane damage. Contributions help with the unmet needs of hurricane victims in WNC.
In Buncombe county and asheville, NC
Manna Food Bank of Asheville - Supplying food for the region.
United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County – Support relief efforts by volunteering, or by donating money and supplies
In North Mitchell County, NC
RESOURCES FOR THOSE RECOVERING
Dial 2-1-1 for Non-emergency request for information
Eligibility:
- People in Buncombe County unemployed as a direct result of Hurricane Helene
- Business owners and self-employed individuals affected by the storm
Application process:
- 60 days from Oct. 1 to file an application
- Apply online at des.nc.gov
- Deadline: Dec. 2, 2024
Were You Affected by Hurricane Helene? 7 Things to Know About Applying for Disaster Assistance
blog post from FEMA that outlines important steps for those affected by the hurricane: FEMA Blog on Hurricane Assistance.
To apply:
In TN: As of 10/10, FEMA representatives are en route to field offices
In NC: FEMA representatives on-site to assist with applications in the folllowin locations around Asheville:
- Black Mountain: 550 Hwy 9
- AB Tech Shelter: 16 Fernihurst Dr (between Conference Center & Parking Deck)
- Pack Square Park
- Community of Emma (Spanish speaking): 528 Emma St
- New Bridge Baptist Church: 199 Elkwood Ave, Asheville
- Basilica of St. Lawrence: 97 Haywood St, Asheville (Laundry Use Trailer)
- Walmart, 60 Airport Rd., Arden
TIPS: