Flooding in East Tennessee from Hurricane Helene has devastated communities, leaving many without homes, food, or basic necessities. Immediate needs include shelter, clean water, clothing, and medical care. Long-term recovery efforts will focus on rebuilding homes and infrastructure, as well as offering emotional and financial support to affected families.
Organizations like the East Tennessee Foundation, YMCA of East Tennessee, and American Red Cross are actively involved, alongside national efforts such as United Way of North Carolina and the North Carolina Community Foundation Disaster Relief Fund. Every contribution helps. Clean-up is no small task—it’s going to take all of us. If you can’t donate money or supplies, you can still help by sharing this information. Keeping it front and center reminds others to step up and support our neighbors. Every bit of awareness helps in taking care of those in need. Let’s do our part to rebuild together.
East Tennessee Foundation
The East Tennessee Foundation is working with TEMA to provide grants to local nonprofits and agencies to aid in rescue and recovery efforts. Learn more or make a donation online here.
Local Donation Centers
Affected counties are establishing donation centers across East Tennessee. TEMA and the Tennessee National Guard have been helping local organizations gather and distribute supplies to community members in need. Find a list of local donation centers at tn.gov/tema/updates/hurricane-helene
YMCA of East Tennessee
The YMCA of East Tennessee is now accepting donations for the victims of flooding and devastation caused by Helene. Items needed include water, flashlights, batteries and portable phone chargers. Donations can be dropped off at all East Tennessee locations. Learn more here.
Tennessee Farm Bureau Farm Disaster Fund
The Tennessee Farm Disaster Fund was created by Tennessee Farm Bureau in 2008 for preparation when farm communities experience natural disasters. Grants from this fund are used to rebuild agricultural infrastructure in rural communities when disasters strike, providing support to Tennessee Farm Bureau members with active farms who have experienced damage to their homes, farms and properties due to a presidentially declared natural disaster. Visit tnfarmbureau.org/tennessee-farm-disaster-fund to donate to the fund or apply for help.
United Way. Local United Way organizations are accepting donations to help relief efforts. You can donate here. (The United Way has also activated its 211 system to serve as a communication tool to access disaster information, resources, and support. If you or someone you know needs non-emergency help in locating resources, call 211 or visit 211.org.)
University of North Carolina system. The UNC System is working closely with leaders at Appalachian State University, University of North Carolina Asheville, and Western Carolina University, as well as the North Carolina Arboretum and the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (in the interest of disclosure, NCSSM is my alma mater), to provide aid and support in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. To help:
- Appalachian State University Disaster Relief Fund
- North Carolina Arboretum giving website (Select “The ONE Fund” designation)
- NCSSM-Morganton Helene Recovery Fund
- UNC Asheville giving website (Select “UNC Asheville Fund” designation)
- Western Carolina University Emergency Fund
- North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund
Flooding in East Tennessee and across Appalachia from Hurricane Helene has caused widespread destruction. Homes, infrastructure, and communities are struggling with immediate needs like shelter, food, and clean water. Long-term recovery will focus on rebuilding, and the clean-up phase will require significant effort from everyone. If you can’t donate, share! Keeping this issue visible will ensure we can take care of our neighbors. Let’s rebuild together.