Helene Recovery Efforts from NCDRRN

by | Mar 5, 2026 | Resource

Helene Recovery Efforts

NC Disaster Response and Resilience Network (NCDRRN) 

Here are a few resources to help you navigate the enormous amount of resources and tools supporting our neighbors in Western, NC. We will update this list every few days, so continue to scroll to find our previous versions. If you have any questions, please reach out to the NC Disaster Response and Resilience Network Staff and/or Board.

www.ncsurvivalschool.org

 

Staff Board 
Anita Cunningham – anita@ncsurvivalschool.org

Lily Roth –

lcroth26@gmail.com

 LeiLani Dowell – leilani@southernvision.org

Wesley Morris – wesley@southernvision.org

Elena Everett – everett@southernvision.org

 

Updated Information

Summer 2025

Financial and Legal Assistance

These resources provide business recovery info, government support programs, and disaster relief services:

Debris Removal and Safety → Tips and Guides

Best place for public safety maps and access logistics:

Grants for Organizations / Government Coordination

Best fit for local government support and institutional grant-seeking:

Webinars and Training Opportunities / Engagement and Advocacy

Great fit for accessible visuals or entry-level outreach resources:

  • SBCN Infographic
     → A helpful visual that introduces small businesses to statewide disaster recovery support networks and where to seek help.

Shelter and Housing Assistance → (possibly, general resource)

  • Disaster Recovery Guide
     → General resource that may touch on housing, financial aid, and legal recovery paths; good as a foundational or reference document to list at the end of the Shelter and Housing Assistance section.

 

Winter 2024/2025

Shelter and Housing Assistance

Short- and Long-Term Housing Support:

  • Multi-Agency Shelter Transition Teams (MASTT):
    Active in shelters across Buncombe, Yancey, and Transylvania counties to help create housing plans.
  • American Red Cross Shelters:
    Operating seven shelters for residents and their pets. View current locations here.
  • Back@Home Program:
    Back@Home Offers housing navigation, case management, rental, and utility assistance in 26 counties.

Physical and Mental Health Resources

Vaccination Support:

  • Free flu, COVID-19, and TDaP vaccines available through Buncombe County Mobile Services. Contact local health departments for regional resources.
  • Ensure tetanus vaccinations are up to date if handling debris.

Mental Health Services:

Food Support

    • D-SNAP: Temporary food assistance program offering benefits for affected households. Applications closed October 24. Contact 1-888-622-7328 for support with benefits.

Debris Removal and Safety

Disposal Efforts:

  • Collaboration with local health departments and the Army Corps of Engineers to manage debris sites safely.
  • Avoid private well water use until properly tested and disinfected. Free testing kits are available through health departments.

Safety Tips:

    • Use N-95 masks during cleanup to minimize dust exposure.
    • Stay indoors when possible, with windows closed, or use spaces with filtered air.
  • Dust and particulate matter concerns are heightened following dry conditions post-hurricane, with respiratory symptoms being reported. A guide regarding exposure is available in English and Spanish. 
  • Online resources and videos are available on mold cleanup, toilet safety, well and septic system maintenance, and hand hygiene without clean water.

Financial and Legal Assistance

Volunteer and Job Opportunities

FEMA

  • FEMA is hiring in Asheville, Durham, Hickory and Raleigh to support community recovery. Applications are being accepted online. To see open positions and apply, visit usajobs.gov, type keywords “FEMA, Local Hire” and enter the location as “North Carolina.” Click to access flyers to post. [updated]

NCORR

Other – From NCIDR Network Members

Grants for Organizations

Disaster Recovery

  • UNC Hurricane Helene Disaster Response Grants. Must be affiliated with UNC-Chapel Hill as a student, staff, or faculty and work with a community partner. https://applicationportal.ccps.unc.edu/ [updated]
  • Appalachian Community Capital —  Western North Carolina Small
    Business Initiative (WNCSBI): https://crfusa.com/

Webinars and Training Opportunities

Engagement and Advocacy

  1. NCORR: “Public invited to comment on proposed use of Tropical Storm Fred long-term recovery funds for Hurricane Helene impacts.
    1. The N.C. Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCORR) is seeking public comments through Dec. 8 on a proposed amendment to the action plan for administering HUD Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery funds in areas of Haywood County that were impacted by Tropical Storm Fred and Hurricane Helene. review online. The public is strongly encouraged to submit comments by email to ncorr.publiccomments@ncdps.gov…” [new]
  2. NCORR: “Call for Applications: North Carolina’s Planning for Extreme Heat Cohort. Register for the November 18th webinar and read the program page to learn more. Applications are due Wednesday, December 4, 2024. [new]
  3. NC Budget and Tax Center: “Guidance has been provided to local governments in disaster affected areas that Local Fiscal Recovery Funds can be obligated to respond to the disaster.
  4. United Farm Workers: “Farm workers need disaster relief just like farmers. Act to support HR 8765.“

Meetings, Trainings, Webinars

  1. 11/14 – NC Disaster Response and Resilience Network is hosting a film screening on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 6:30 pm (see the flyer here), and we are inviting our partners and their networks to attend.  We will have a panel of community leaders to answer questions after the screening. [new]
  2. 11/18 – Meeting of the NC General Assembly Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations Subcommittee on Hurricane Response and Recovery Committee. 1:00 PM, 300 N Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC 27603. Learn more: https://www.ncleg.gov/Committees/CommitteeInfo/NonStanding/152.
  3. 11/19 – The Association of Mexicans in North Carolina (AMEXCAN), the North Carolina Latino Resource Network (NCLRN), and the North Carolina Latino Disaster Recovery Alliance (NCLDRA) in collaboration with NC Sea Grant, cordially invite you to the “Safe and Ready: Advancing Health and Disaster Preparedness for Coastal Latino Communities” conference on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm EST at the Duplin County Agricultural Center. Register: https://form.jotform.com/242664392680160.

NC Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster

  1. Long-Term Recovery Groups
    Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 am
    https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1600984167?pwd=ReCnimGshq1zPXegTNF8ejSsQO7k0b.1
    Meeting ID: 160 098 4167, Passcode: 604572
  2. Helene Response Coordination call
    Wednesdays at 12:30 pm
    https://zoom.us/j/96954774349?pwd=b4HofOoZZ8NekO7dVsLRb8kp4Ye4pz.1
    Meeting ID: 969 5477 4349, Passcode: 744752
  3. Disaster Case Management
    Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:00 am
    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84614838915?pwd=bxq0AQMc75Qodbb0acifeAzh1KaKvr.1
  4. Emotional and Spiritual Care/Child Wellbeing
    Time TBD
    https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1601395145?pwd=RXI3MDI2c1poN3VGNXhRTEpzejRWQT09
    Meeting ID: 160 139 5145, Passcode: 054460
  5. Volunteer Management
    Fridays at 2 pm
    https://zoom.us/j/94596191471?pwd=H6w1oADxpjeAaAnvNab05OWJBTaB7q.1
    Meeting ID: 945 9619 1471, Passcode: 461008
  6. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
    Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 am
    https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9632146210?omn=82837954669
    Meeting ID: 963 214 6210

How to Donate and Volunteer

  1. Blue Ridge Public Radio has this list.
  2. VolunteerNC has this list.
  3. NC211 has this list.
  4. NCVOAD has this list.
  5. Hands On Asheville-Buncombe County has this list.

October 30, 2024

Key Messages

  1. Disaster Supplemental Assistance Program
    • Applications accepted through Friday, October 25 for 5 WNC counties: Alexander, Buncombe, Haywood, Macon, and McDowell. Eligibility is broader than the regular program.
    • If individuals completed pre-registration before October 24, they will be contacted and can complete registration by November 1. Program Information
  2. Volunteer & Supply Coordination
  3. Local Updates from Impacted Zones
    • Survivors in Tents: Many residents are camping on their property due to uninhabitable homes. Camping supplies are urgently needed.
    • Mid-Term Housing Solutions: While FEMA and other organizations provide temporary housing, additional mid-term housing options are necessary as the return timeline for many homes remains uncertain.

For Households

  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Assistance and guidance on available support.
  • United Way of North Carolina: Resources and volunteer connections.
  • NC 211: A hotline and information service for NC residents affected by the hurricane.
  • ReadyNC.gov: Updates, resources, and preparedness information.
  • Disaster Unemployment Assistance: Support for those whose jobs have been impacted.
  • Grants Resource Guide: Aid for accessing disaster recovery funding and support.

Small Business Resources

  • Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC): Disaster recovery assistance for financial needs.
  • Small Business Administration (SBA): Loans and financial resources for small businesses affected by Helene.
  • Economic Development Partnership of NC: Resources for rebuilding and economic recovery.
  • NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Support for agricultural businesses and consumer resources.

Health Resources

  • NC 211: Emergency information and healthcare support.
  • Operating Pharmacies: Find pharmacies open in impacted areas.
  • Open Medical Practices: Medical centers providing services in affected regions.
  • Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP): Support for obtaining necessary prescriptions and medical supplies.
  • NC Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Updates: Latest health guidelines and resources.
  • NC Medicaid Bulletins: Updates for Medicaid beneficiaries.
  • North Carolina Healthcare Association: Healthcare resources and support for impacted residents.

Noticias en Español

  • Enlace Latino: Spanish-language news and updates.
  • Blue Ridge Public Radio: Bilingual reporting on hurricane recovery.
  • ReadyNC.gov: Select “Language” for information in Spanish.
  • NC Department of Employment Security: Resources for job assistance.
  • Mountain BizWorks: Financial resources and small business support.
  • FEMA: Disaster aid in Spanish.
  • Small Business Administration (SBA): Spanish-language resources for business recovery.

Reunification Resources

For people looking for missing loved ones after Hurricane Helene, use the following resources to help:

Federal Procurement Training (Local Government & Nonprofit Focus)

  • UNC School of Government is partnering with FEMA’s Procurement Disaster Assistance Team for two virtual trainings:

Youth & Teen Mental Health Support

  • Somethings.com: Connects teens and young adults with Certified Peer Support Specialist mentors and offers referrals to licensed therapists. Get Support at Somethings.com
    • Availability: After school from 3:00-11:00 p.m. and weekends via text and video calls.

October 23, 2024

Key Messages

  1. Do Not Send Unsolicited Donations or Volunteers
    • Please only contribute through local partners with specific needs to avoid overwhelming recovery sites.
  2. Stay Updated on Food Assistance and Financial Support Programs
    • Programs like D-SNAP are available to support affected individuals; eligibility requirements may be broader than regular assistance programs.
  3. Focus on Safety and Recovery Coordination
    • Engage with official agencies and trusted local resources to ensure coordinated, effective assistance efforts.

Food Assistance

  • D-SNAP (Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program):
    • Who: Open to residents of 25 Western NC counties or Eastern Band of Cherokee households in zip code 28719.
    • Eligibility: Must have losses due to Hurricane Helene, reside in eligible areas, meet income/resource guidelines, and not currently receive FNS benefits.
    • Application: Apply by phone (1-844-453-1117) or online via the ePASS Pre-Registration Tool. On-site applications available at select locations.
    • Timeline: October 18 – October 24.
    • More Info: NCDHHS D-SNAP

Medical Assistance

  • Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP):
    • Eligibility: Uninsured NC residents affected by Hurricane Helene.
    • What it Covers: 30-day supply of certain prescriptions, medical supplies, and equipment free of charge.
    • How to Access: Call EPAP Hotline at 855-793-7470. Locate participating pharmacies here.

Mental Health Resources

 

Volunteer Coordination & Support

  1. Seeking Volunteers:
    • United Way of NC: Contact scarlson@unitedwaync.org for a list of 750+ volunteers.
    • NCVOAD: Register or find volunteer roles on NCVOAD.org.
    • VolunteerNC: Find urgent opportunities via VolunteerNC.
  2. Offering Volunteers:
    • Crisis Cleanup: Seeking bilingual phone volunteers through registered organizations. More Info
    • Local Needs: Volunteer housing with heating and running water is still in demand; prefer local, daytime volunteers over overnight stays.

Specific Supply Needs & Local Reports

  1. Heavy Equipment Needs: Equipment like pallet jacks and forklifts is urgently needed.
  2. Local Needs for Supplies: Only bring items specifically requested by a person or organization. Balance in supply distribution is a priority.
  3. Long-Term Recovery Groups: Focus areas in Henderson County and others are forming Long-Term Recovery Groups to support structured recovery efforts. For more info, contact dhearn@crrteam.org.

Additional Resources

  • Resources for Resilience: Offering daily Listening Circles for residents affected by Hurricane Helene. More Info
  • CIMA (Compañeros Inmigrantes de las Montañas en Acción): Supporting immigrant communities in Western NC. Visit CIMA

October 16, 2024

Key Messages

  1. DO NOT bring in donations or volunteers unless you have a local partner! There is a  great need, but self-deploying is dangerous and can strain limited resources, block critical  supply routes, and complicate rescue efforts while putting yourself and others at risk. Many donations are being left on the side of the road as warehouse space is limited right now.
  1. If you NEED VOLUNTEERS: 
  2. United Way of NC has a list of 750+ people who have filled out our volunteer interest  form. If you’re looking for volunteers, please email me to discuss: scarlson@unitedwaync.org.
  3. VolunteerNC
  4. United Way 211
  5. NCVOAD.org/Volunteer
  6. If you can OFFER VOLUNTEERS:
  7. Crisis Cleanup Phone Volunteers: English and Spanish volunteers are desperately  needed. Volunteers must be associated with an organization registered in Crisis  Cleanup. Info is located at https://tinyurl.com/ms3nmw53.
  8. NCVOAD: https://ncvoad.org/volunteer
  9. United Way 211: https://nc211.org/hurricane-helene-volunteer-opportunities/
  10. VolunteerNC: Urgent Volunteer Opportunities information

Local Reports from the Impacted Zone

  1. Crisis Relief and Recovery (CRR) – Dave Hearn, Henderson County
    • Focus: Transitioning from damage assessment to tree work, muck/gut, and mold remediation, targeting uninsured individuals, seniors, disabled folks, first responders, and veterans.
    • Volunteer Info: Volunteers needed from 7:45-8:00 AM at the Family Life and Refuge Center in Dana, Henderson County, NC.
      Contact: jreed@crrteam.org
      NEEDS: Mold remediation spray (brands: Shockwave, Concrobium).
      Contact: dhearn@crrteam.org
      Survivor Hotline: 828-513-0801
  2. NECHAMA – Shlomo Rozenek, Asheville and Hendersonville
  3. United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County – Dan Leroy
    • Work: Partnering with Buncombe County government to recruit and coordinate volunteers.
    • Status: Over 6,000 volunteers available, but further connections to opportunities are needed.
      Volunteer Link: United Way Volunteer Opportunities
  4. Christian Church of Disciples of Christ
    • Action: First truckload of clean-up buckets to be distributed in Black Mountain at Christ Mount tomorrow.
    • NEED: Mission code for clear access to impacted areas.

Updated Links for Assistance

  1. Mental Health Crisis Care
  2. Walk-in Clinics
  3. Mobile Crisis Response
  4. Opioid Treatment Programs
  5. Behavioral Health Shelter Support
  6. Connections App
  7. Access to Medication
  8. Medicaid Flexibilities
  9. Find Housing

October 12, 2024

Key Messages

  1. DO NOT self-deploy! There is a great need, but self-deploying is dangerous and can strain limited resources, block critical supply routes, and complicate rescue efforts while putting yourself and others at risk.
    • Do not travel to western NC UNLESS:
      • You have coordinated with a local organization that has requested your service and is ready to receive you upon entry.
      • You are fully self-sufficient, including plans for food, water, lodging, and travel.
      • You have enough fuel to get both in and out.
  2. Coordinate movement of supplies with the state Business Emergency Operations Center to ensure you have access.
    • You can email your supply logistics or movement requests to BEOC@ncdps.gov.
    • Begin the subject line with “Logistics Support.” Please include the following info:
      • What are you moving?
      • Why do you need special access?
      • When do you plan to move and from where?
      • Where are you going?
      • When will you arrive at the “border to Western NC” and where?
  3. ORGANIZATIONS
    • Send specific inquiries, offers for support, or general questions to SERT@ncvoad.org.
    • Use NeedsList to coordinate your needs and offers for support.
  4. INDIVIDUALS

October 8, 2024

High-Level Status Updates

  1. North Carolina Emergency Management is working to find warehouses in WNC and transporting offerings people have brought to different donation sites across North Carolina.
    • “Please do not self-deploy resources or supply logistics unless you are attached to an existing NCVOAD organization. We must secure routes for responders and critical partner assets needed for response and recovery efforts. There is a high likelihood that your team(s) will be turned away at various checkpoints.” – NC BEOC.
    • The State Emergency Response Team highlights the importance of trusted information sources. NCEM officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media, and have published a resource on facts vs. rumors.
  2. FEMA is reporting the following statistics:
    • 108,093 registrations
    • 39 max grants
    • 27,293 folks have received serious need assistance
    • 1,280 have received displacement assistance
    • Housing assistance: $1,433,851.16 approved
    • 20,164 inspections issued
    • 16,932 inspections pending

1. Emotional Support and Mental Health Resources

Disaster Distress Helpline

  • Crisis counseling
  • Information on recognizing distress and its effects
  • Referrals to local crisis centers
  • Healthy coping tips
  • Hope4NC Helpline: 1-855-587-3463 (For first responders and volunteers)

2. How to Help

Concrete Actions You Can Take

  • Organize Supply Drops: Ensure you have enough gas and necessary supplies for safe travel. Do not overburden ground resources.
  • Skills Utilization: If skilled with a chainsaw or other tools, your expertise is highly valuable.

Donating

  • Helene Response Fund: Appalachian Funders Network
    • Tax-deductible donations supporting local organizations and mutual aid funds in Appalachia.
  • Mutual Aid Networks: Fastest way to provide immediate assistance like diapers, water, and tarps. View Mutual Aid Networks

3. Supporting Latine Families in Western NC

Donation Options

Recursos para familias Latines

4. Resources for Farmers Impacted by Hurricane Helene

Compiled Resources

  • Contact the RAFI Hotline: 866.586.6746 for urgent farm crises.
  • Updates from RAFI: Sign Up Here
  • USDA Disaster Info: USDA
  • RAFI Disaster Information: RAFI
  • Directory of USDA County Offices: Directory

Important Steps for Farmers:

  1. Document damage with dated photographs and third-party verification.
  2. Report damage to your local USDA Service Center.
  3. Keep detailed notes of damage and repairs needed, including receipts.

5. Additional Resources

General Resources

  • FEMA Assistance: Disaster Assistance
  • VA Department of Social Services: For essential supplies, call 2-1-1 or 1-800-230-6977.

Information on Help

6. Report Missing Persons and Find Loved Ones

Missing Persons Support

  • To report or check on missing persons:
    • Call NC211: 1-888-892-1162
    • Text “PERSON” to 40403

Red Cross Reunification

  • To search for a loved one, the Red Cross is receiving inquiries and sending volunteers to search the impacted areas, a form can be found HERE.
  • People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
    • You can also call Duke Energy at 1-800-419-6356 to report power outages or text “OUT” to 57801.

7. Severe Weather Resources

Information and Updates

Stay Informed

  • Sign up for weather alerts using local news or NOAA weather radio.

8. Additional Donations and Support Initiatives

Where to Donate

  • North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund: HERE
  • Donate medical supplies through the Department of Health and Human Services.
  • Private Helicopter Donations: Coordinate with Lindsay Duke at 828-851-0777, Rutherford County Airport.

Emergency Relief Funds

9. Volunteer Opportunities

October 4, 2024

1. Mutual Aid and Relief Organizations

2. Information and Resources

General Information

Financial Assistance

Donations

3. Volunteer Opportunities

4. Support for Specific Groups

5. Guides and Additional Resources

  • WNC Helene Relief Linktree – HERE

 

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