In the aftermath of this natural disaster, we are witnessing both the heartbreaking devastation and the incredible generosity of those who are asking, “How can I help?”
Our friends at United Way of Greater Knoxville, United Way of the East Tennessee Highlands, and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency have put together some great resources that we want to share.
How You Can Help
Currently, monetary donations are the best way to help as they can be deployed quickly and flexibly to meet changing needs. Per TEMA, impacted counties do not have the capability to receive material donations or additional volunteers at this time.
Recovery will take some communities months and may take some families years. While emergency conditions may limit your ability to help immediately, please stay engaged over the coming weeks to learn about efforts that need your support.
Donate Money
- Northeast Tennessee: Click here to donate to the United Way of East Tennessee Highlands Disaster Relief Fund.
- Western North Carolina: Click here to donate to the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County Disaster Relief Fund.
- Southeastern United States: United Way Worldwide has established a fund to direct resources to local United Ways addressing critical needs across affected states. Click here to donate.
Donations — Items
Currently, monetary donations are the best way to help as they can be deployed quickly and flexibly to meet changing needs.
- If you feel strongly about giving items, look for local organizations on the ground who have wish lists, and send the items on the list, knowing that there are significant shipping delays in impacted areas.
- Do not send used clothing or household goods, or any other unsolicited donations, as receiving, sorting, and warehousing donated goods can take resources away from relief efforts.
Volunteering
- TEMA urges civilians not to self-deploy to disaster areas, as road conditions remain dangerous and unplanned arrivals can hinder organized relief efforts.
- Hands On is partnering with Crisis Cleanup to help survivors share their needs with agencies that can help provide tarping, tree removal, and home repairs. Sign up to receive training and take calls from survivors.
- The American Red Cross is recruiting volunteers to support temporary shelters in Northeast Tennessee. Training is required. Click here for more information.
- Follow the United Way of the East Tennessee Highlands to learn more about volunteer efforts that may need your support. Plan any related travel carefully, understanding that hotel rooms may be full of survivors and many roads are still impassable.
- Local people are the best sources of support after a disaster. If you are passionate about serving those impacted by natural disasters, learn more about becoming a Disaster Volunteer Leader through Hands On, so you can be ready to help with local emergencies.
Thank you for your compassion and commitment to helping those affected by this disaster.