Hurricane Helene Resources
Disaster Recovery
- Get the most recent updates on Hurricane Helene assistance from FEMA, including post-storm safety tips and how to find shelters. This includes links to local resources for residents in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Financial Assistance
- See if you qualify for federal disaster financial assistance, which may include wage benefits, grocery assistance, housing assistance, medical benefits, and more.
- North Carolina Disaster Unemployment Assistance: https://www.des.nc.gov/dua
- South Carolina Disaster Assistance: https://www.scemd.org/recover/get-help/help-for-individuals/
Health
- Mental Health Support: Reach out to the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990, available 24/7 for free crisis counseling for anyone facing emotional distress due to natural or human-made disasters. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals can use a videophone or ASL Now for assistance.
- The Defense Health Agency has announced temporary waivers for prescription refills and emergency fills for TRICARE beneficiaries in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find details for North Carolina beneficiaries.
Food and Agriculture Safety
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides food safety advice, tips for safeguarding pets and livestock, as well as risk management and disaster assistance resources for agricultural producers after a disaster.
Local Charities
Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
CFWNC has activated its Emergency and Disaster Response Fund to accept and disburse funds supporting a regional response and relief efforts in 18 counties of Western North Carolina including the Qualla Boundary. Funds will ensure that frontline nonprofits have the resources they need for the critical early response and continuing recovery.
United Way of Greenville
All donations made to The United Way of Greenville’s Community Relief Fund will go toward helping neighbors and the community recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene.
United Way of the Piedmont
The United Way of the Piedmont has activated their United for All Relief Fund to assist those impacted by the hurricane. You can donate or find out about volunteer opportunities by visiting the website.