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Sep 303 min read

Hurricane Helene’s Fury Leaves Over 2 Million in the Dark Across the Southeast — At Least 95 Dead as the Death Toll Rises — Here’s How You Can Help

by Jim Hᴏft Sep. 30, 2024 7:30 am

from The Gateway Pundit


LKY: I lived in South Carolina for 26 years. It is heartbreaking to see so many familiar areas devastated. Our old house had 3 trees fall on it. Still waiting for pictures.


Photo: from Franklin Graham


The Southeastern United States has been plunged into devastation after Category 4 Hurricane Helene, the strongest hurricane to ever strike Florida’s Big Bend region, unleashed catastrophic destruction across six states.

Helene’s ferocious winds and torrential rains have claimed at least 95 lives, left millions without power, and trapped countless families in floodwaters, particularly in North Carolina, where entire communities have been cut off from vital resources.

The death toll continues to rise, with North Carolina being hit the hardest, reporting at least 36 casualties. South Carolina follows closely with 25 confirmed deaths, including two firefighters who died in Saluda County, according to CNN.

In Georgia, 17 lives were lost, two of them victims of a tornado that swept through Alamo. In Florida, 11 fatalities have been confirmed, with many occurring in Pinellas County, where flash floods overtook entire neighborhoods.

Tennessee and Virginia have also reported deaths, with four in Tennessee and two in Virginia, as rescue operations remain ongoing.

In the hardest-hit areas of North Carolina, floodwaters have ravaged entire neighborhoods. Families are stranded without food, water, or power.



As millions struggle with the aftermath, President Biden has yet to set foot in any of the disaster zones. Despite being briefed by FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, the president’s visit has been delayed to avoid “disrupting emergency response operations,” according to the White House.

In contrast, former President Donald Trump quickly issued a statement expressing his condolences and will be visiting Georgia on Monday to help facilitate relief for families affected by Hurricane Helene.


How to Help After Hurricane Helene


Local Organizations in Western North Carolina You Can Help via BPR News:

  • Manna FoodBank (Asheville)


    The organization’s warehouse was prepared prior to the storm, and they are coordinating recovery efforts. There are various ways to get involved, from volunteering to donating. To donate online, visit Manna FoodBank’s donation page.


  • BeLoved Asheville

    Volunteers are collecting and distributing supplies such as food, bottled water, and essential goods. Cash donations can be made via:

    • Venmo: @BeLoved-Asheville

    • CashApp: $BeLovedAsheville

    • Zelle: 828-412-2054


  • Foothills Food Hub

    Based in McDowell County, they are sourcing water and shelf-stable goods for those affected. You can donate here.


  • Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry

    In partnership with the Red Cross, they are providing shelter and support for displaced residents. Donations to help with food and motel vouchers can be made at ABCCM.


  • Homeward Bound (Asheville)

    Assisting the homeless community by distributing essentials and clothing during the storm. For donations and more information, visit Homeward Bound’s website.


  • WNC Regional Livestock Center (Canton)

    Assisting farmers and animals impacted by the flood. Donations for buying feed and other essentials can be made by contacting Yvonne Coburn at 828-216-4496.


  • American Red Cross of North Carolina

    Shelters have been opened in Western North Carolina, with opportunities to volunteer or donate blood. Donations can be made by texting “Helene” to 90999 or via their website.


  • Salvation Army of the Carolinas

    Known for providing meals and support during disasters, you can find more information on donating here.


  • Baptists on Mission

    Volunteers are needed for flood recovery and temporary roof repair. Sign up to help or donate here.


  • United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County

    Offering a 2-1-1 hotline to connect residents with resources. Donations to aid in disaster response can be made here.


  • Samaritan’s Purse

    The organization is responding to North Carolina’s High Country and eastern Tennessee. Volunteer deployments begin on Sept. 30. Donations can be made online.

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According to FEMA:

National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) members and partners are actively assisting communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. These organizations will continue to serve impacted areas for as long as necessary. Please note that there is no request for donations outside of cash at this time. Unsolicited goods should not be sent, and individuals should refrain from self-deploying to disaster zones.

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