Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Asheville, NC; How You Can Help

Western North Carolina recently faced a catastrophic blow from Hurricane Helene, resulting in widespread devastation. The storm caused severe flooding, power outages, and significant damage to homes and infrastructure throughout the town and surrounding areas. The ACT Advisors team is safe, and we are working hard to continue supporting our clients and our community during this difficult time.

The Situation in Asheville

Hurricane Helene, a powerful storm, swept through the southeastern U.S., impacting states like North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, and Georgia. Asheville experienced heavy rainfall and extreme flooding, leading to disrupted daily life and challenges in restoring basic services such as power, water, and communication. Roads remain impassable in some areas, and emergency response teams are working around the clock to assist those affected.

In the face of such adversity, Asheville’s community spirit remains strong. We are seeing local organizations and residents come together to help those in need. While the road to recovery will be long, the resilience of Asheville’s people shines through.

How You Can Help

The best way to support those affected by Hurricane Helene is by donating to reputable charities that are actively providing relief and recovery. Here’s a categorized list of some highly-rated organizations responding to the crisis:

Disaster Relief and Recovery

1. American Red Cross – Providing immediate disaster relief, including shelters, food, and health services for affected individuals.
2. Direct Relief – Supporting local healthcare providers with medical supplies and emergency health services in hurricane-affected areas.
3. GlobalGiving – A platform that supports various local organizations focused on hurricane relief efforts and long-term recovery.
4. Beloved Asheville – Provides flood relief, supplies, and support in accessing resources from Canton to Wilmington to Asheville.

Food and Water Assistance

1. World Central Kitchen – Offering freshly prepared meals to communities impacted by natural disasters.
2. Food Connection – Food Connection is actively delivering meals to the hardest hit communities through RELIEF MEALS efforts. 

Housing and Shelter Support

1. Habitat for Humanity – Assisting with the rebuilding of homes and providing resources for those displaced by the hurricane.
2. Team Rubicon – Mobilizing veterans and volunteers to help with debris removal, home repairs, and rebuilding efforts in impacted areas.

Medical and Mental Health Services

1. Americares – Providing health and medical care to those affected by Hurricane Helene, including prescription medications and mental health support.
2. The Salvation Army – Delivering comprehensive care through shelters, health services, and emotional support to families affected by the disaster.

Children and Family Support

1. Save the Children – Focusing on the unique needs of children and families during natural disasters, providing safe spaces and essential supplies.
2. World Vision – Supporting families and children with emergency supplies, education resources, and child protection services in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Local Efforts in Asheville

In addition to national organizations, local Asheville groups are also stepping up to provide relief. Volunteers are organizing clean-ups, food distributions, and support for displaced families. If you’re local to the area and want to get involved, keep an eye on community message boards and social media for opportunities to volunteer.

Supporting Our Community

At ACT Advisors, we’re proud to be part of the Asheville community, and our thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and keep you updated on any developments that might impact our services.

We encourage you to reach out if you need support or have questions. If you’re looking to make a direct impact, consider donating to any of the charities listed above, as they are providing critical aid to those in need.

How to Stay Safe

If you’re in an area affected by Hurricane Helene, please continue to follow safety guidelines and local advisories. Avoid flooded areas, seek shelter in a safe place, and check in with neighbors who might need assistance. If you need to evacuate, make sure you have an emergency kit ready with essentials like food, water, medications, and important documents.

More Information and How to Donate

For more details about how you can help or to donate directly to the charities mentioned, visit the Charity Navigator website. They have curated a list of trusted organizations that are actively responding to the disaster and helping those in need.

Closing Thoughts

The road to recovery after Hurricane Helene will be challenging, but with the support of our community and the generosity of those willing to lend a hand, we believe that Asheville will come back stronger. At ACT Advisors, we are committed to supporting our clients and the broader community through this crisis. Together, we can make a difference and help rebuild our beloved town.

For more information about how ACT Advisors is supporting the community during this time or if you need guidance from a financial planner in Asheville, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help you through these tough times and guide your financial decisions for a more secure future.

Thank you for standing with Asheville in its time of need.