Our hearts go out to everyone experiencing the destruction left in the wake of Hurricane Helene. At FHLI, we are extremely grateful to be able to report that our staff in the western part of the state are safe. Regardless, we are with countless people everywhere working to account for family and friends in the disaster area.
In an attempt to help the region, we’re coordinating a county-by-county log of existing community-based resources, listed on the map above. For folks in WNC, we hope this resource proves to be useful as you regain electricity and cell service. For those outside of WNC, we hope this serves as a thorough database of organizations to donate to and support in the coming weeks and months.
Western North Carolina is devastated. Rebuilding will take time and resources, and we hope you can join us in contributing to organizations on the ground working to help their neighbors.
Please note: many local and regional organizations still face power and cell service outages and may not have information online about specific ways to give to hurricane relief. In the immediate aftermath, statewide and federal resources are likely the most direct options to get relief into Western North Carolina. As conditions improve, local organizations will play an important role in ensuring that resources continue to flow in to help rebuild the region.
Another note: We will continue working to identify local resources in each county within the disaster declaration zone in Western North Carolina. We will make daily updates throughout the coming weeks. If you know of a resource not listed in this post, please contact Brady Blackburn at brady.blackburn@foundationhli.org.
Statewide, Regional, and Federal Resources
Health Care Access – NCDHHS
NCDHHS is maintaining up-to-date information about health care resources in Western North Carolina, including:
- Disaster recovery-specific information like water safety, food safety, and more
- Lists of operating pharmacies and medical practices
- Temporary Medicaid flexibilities
- Shelter, aid, and other emergency assistance resources
- Resources for providers
https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/hurricane-helene-recovery-resources
Residents trying to connect with family members in WNC may call NC 211 or 1 (888) 892-1162 and press OPTION 1 to request a wellness check.
NC Disaster Relief Fund
FEMA Individual Assistance
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
(800) 621-3362
NC Department of Insurance Detailed Instructions to navigate FEMA individual assistance claims.
More information about FEMA individual assistance for North Carolinians.
Live Traffic Updates
Red Cross NC
Visit redcross.org/shelter to find a shelter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) if you need assistance 24 hours a day.
NC Search and Rescue Center
Call 211 or 1-888-892-1162
Hurricane Helene Clean Up Hotline – NC National Guard
Call 1 (844) 965-1386
North Carolina Community Foundation
NCCF is splitting donations across organizations providing direct and ongoing relief.
https://www.nccommunityfoundation.org/nonprofits/disaster-relief-fund/hurricane-helene-response
World Central Kitchen
NCCARE360
United Cajun Navy Rescue Request
Rescue form for medical emergency/rescue/evacuation requests
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8cYaLMXXXNOWdlt_4AMFdpum0hpLmCOO_SA997P1xhMxXTQ/viewform
FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an FCC program that provides up to $30/month for broadband services for households in a disaster area.
Spanish-Speaking Resources and Services
Buncombe County Missing Loved Ones Form (English and Spanish)
Hola Carolina
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization building bridges between cultures and embracing the diversity of our community; translating WNC updates into Spanish
News and information: 828-333-3898
Resources: 828-989-5248
Unidxs WNC
A local, intercultural, politically independent organization committed to serving the community; providing resources/up-to-date information for Spanish-speaking folks in Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Macon, Jackson, and Swain counties.
828-242-7345
Unete NC
Asheville-based CBO with updated information available in Spanish; UNETE’s vision is to equitably facilitate immediate and lasting transformation in lives across Western North Carolina (WNC)