Watching an unfolding disaster can often be heartbreaking for those outside of it, and absolutely devastating for anyone living through it. Here’s how you can help victims of Hurricane Helene in Florida and beyond as the full impacts of the storm become clear in the coming days.
Remember That Cash Is King
While donations of clothing, food and bottled water inevitably rush in, aid organizations say they can create logistical nightmares. A financial contribution to a reputable organization, on the other hand, can be funneled to wherever and whatever need is greatest. If you have the time, volunteering is the next best way to assist the community after a disaster.
Know Who You’re Giving To
Charity scams abound amid devastating weather events and other disasters. Just a few minutes of research can make sure you’re giving to a trusted organization.
A Short List Of Where To Donate
Florida Disaster Fund
The Florida Disaster Fund is the state’s of Florida’s official private fundraiser for disaster relief. The fund provides financial assistance to communities as they respond to and recover from emergencies or disasters like Hurricane Helene. Visit The Florida Disaster Fund website for more information and to contribute.
American Red Cross
As Hurricane Helene made landfall, the American Red Cross deployed hundreds of trained disaster workers and assited more than 2,600 people in shelters. Their work will continue through cleanup and recovery. Learn more or donate by visiting redcross.org or calling 800-RED-CROSS. You can also make a significant impact as a future Red Cross volunteer or by signing up to give blood.
United Way
The United Way assists in disaster-related evacuations, shelters, food/clothing distributions, volunteer opportunities and other resources. Monetary contributions can be made to the United Way of Florida Disaster Fund.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army operates mobile feeding units, emergency disaster warehouses and other relief efforts. You can call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) to make a donation by phone, text STORM to 51555 or use the Salvation Army Hurricane Helene Relief webpage.
For Disaster Services and Information, please visit the Collier County Emergency Management website. Click Here
To Get Involved with the clean-up efforts and helping the community of Southwest Florida post emergency, visit Volunteer Florida.org
For other clean-up services:
FP Property Restoration
When catastrophe strikes—such as a hurricane, tropical storm, flood, or fire—you need an emergency response team who can quickly assess the damage to your property and get started on immediate repairs. At FP Property Restoration, we handle all types of property damage restoration in Florida, the Gulf Coast Region and Nationwide.
Need emergency property damage restoration in Florida? Trust the award-winning team at FP Property Restoration! Call (888) 296-1935 now to find out how we can help.
Mr. Dry Services
A full-service company relating to restoration, renovation and remodeling. There is no need to call multiple contractors to get to your desired result, we turn natural disasters, and accident tragedies back into better than new safe desirable dwellings. Visit http://mrdryservices.com or CALL NOW 239-932-2874
Tim’s Tree Service
At Tim’s Tree Service, we have served the areas of Cape Coral, Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, and Lee County since the late 1980s and our team of highly-trained tree surgeons can efficiently come in after a storm to help restore your property and stormproof the rest of your trees. During our emergency storm cleanups, we clear stray branches, fallen trees, and remove damaged trees.
JDog Junk Removal & Hauling
Dog is a nationally recognized brand offering franchise opportunities through JDog Junk Removal & Hauling. We specialize in the home and commercial service industry, providing junk removal and hauling. We are known for our Military work ethic and employment of Veterans. Telephone number 844-438-5364