Supporting Relief Efforts After Hurricanes Helene & Milton
In recent weeks, the Southeastern U.S. has faced the devastating impact of two powerful hurricanes.
Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, made landfall on September 26, 2024, affecting Florida’s Big Bend region. Just weeks later, Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, struck near Siesta Key on October 9.
These storms have disrupted countless lives, destroyed homes, and damaged critical infrastructure across multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and beyond.
Response Efforts
In the wake of these hurricanes, individuals, organizations, and businesses from across the nation have united to provide support for those in need. Charities have quickly mobilized to offer shelter, food, and essential resources to hurricane victims, demonstrating the incredible power of community in times of crisis.
“It’s during challenging times like these that we truly see the strength of our communities,” says Penny Herron, Director of Smiles.
How AnswerFirst Is Helping
As a Florida-based company, we feel a deep responsibility to assist those impacted by Helene and Milton, both near and far from our hometown.
“We’re committed to supporting our community through both action and compassion, helping to rebuild lives and restore hope,” Penny explains.
To aid communities in their recovery and rebuilding efforts, we have made donations to the following charities that are on the front lines, providing critical resources to those in need.
Asheville Humane Society
The Asheville Humane Society is a local, independent nonprofit located in Asheville, North Carolina. This dedicated group tirelessly works to provide shelter and care for animals, ensuring they find loving homes, especially during these trying times.
As a result of hurricanes Helene and Milton, many pets were separated from their families, and the Humane Society stepped in to ensure they were safe, cared for, and eventually returned to their owners or placed in loving homes.
Check out how our donation helped the Asheville Humane Society: Meet Ribbon!
Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina
The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina is among the largest anti-hunger organizations in the United States. They work every day to provide food to people in need, while advancing long-term solutions to end hunger in our communities.
Following the devastation caused by the recent hurricanes, the food bank worked around-the-clock to distribute emergency food and supplies to families left without access to basic necessities, ensuring that no one goes hungry in the aftermath of disasters.
Water Mission
Water Mission is a nonprofit based out of North Charleston, SC. They design and build safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions for people in developing countries, refugee camps, and disaster areas. Clean water is often compromised in these areas and can lead to further health complications.
Water Mission’s efforts have been critical in ensuring those affected by the recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, have access to safe, clean water for drinking, cooking etc.
Moving Forward Together
While recovery efforts continue, it’s important to recognize that the impact of these hurricanes will be felt long after the storms have passed. Ongoing support for charitable organizations is vital to help communities rebuild and recover.
We encourage everyone to join us in making a difference. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering time, or simply spreading the word about these organizations, every little bit helps.
At AnswerFirst, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities. Together, we can foster resilience, compassion, and hope as we rebuild and emerge stronger than ever.