The Lasting Impacts of Hurricane Helene
How to Help and Where to Find Support
A message from Lucas Bissett AFFTA Executive Director
As the frequency of massive and powerful storms increase, so do the affects they have on the industry we represent. While southern Louisiana recovers from Hurricane Francine; Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina are reeling from Hurricane Helene and the devastation being caused by her strong winds and flooding.
First, I want to say to all those affected, my thoughts are with you and your families. The fear, uncertainty and emotional destruction caused by a storm of this magnitude is immeasurable. As someone who has lived through too many storms to count in my lifetime, believe me when I say, I know what you are going through and I empathize at the highest level.
As a trade association, AFFTA has a responsibility to provide resources when things are at their best and at their worst. While this blog attempts to help those in need with the links to resources that could be helpful the recovery from this widespread devastation has yet to begin. We will keep adding to this list as we become aware of any opportunities to help get your lives and businesses back online. We wish everyone affected the best from the bottom of our hearts.
-Lucas Bissett
The Lasting Impacts of Hurricane Helene: How to Help and Where to Find Support
Hurricane Helene made landfall with unprecedented force, unleashing widespread devastation across the southeastern United States. Communities along its path now face the daunting task of rebuilding. From Florida’s Gulf Coast Georgia, Western North Carolina, and surrounding areas is unimaginable.
Now, as these regions struggle to recover, countless communities are in dire need of support—whether it’s physical assistance, donations, or basic relief services. It’s a time for collective action, as neighbors, friends, and strangers come together to help those affected begin to rebuild their lives.
What Communities Are Facing
The damage caused by Hurricane Helene is difficult to comprehend. Entire neighborhoods have been submerged, homes and businesses leveled, and infrastructure crippled. In Florida, the Gulf Coast has been severely battered, leaving thousands without power, clean water, or access to basic necessities.
Georgia and Western North Carolina experienced massive flooding, fallen trees, and significant property damage. Many rural areas remain isolated, cut off from essential services and waiting for relief efforts to reach them.
How You Can Help
In the face of such overwhelming destruction, there are numerous ways to get involved and lend a helping hand to the affected communities. Whether you have time to volunteer, financial resources to donate, or need assistance yourself, here are some key resources to connect with:
National Services
Florida Resources
Business Damage Assessment Survey Florida
Resources Regarding Unemployment Assistance Florida
Georgia Resources
Georgia State Parks - Can help take pets or livestock
GEMA- Disaster Related Assistance
North Carolina Resources
North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund
UWHelpsNC Helene Recovery Fund*
Tennessee Resources
The Road to Recovery
The recovery for these communities will take years, long after the initial relief efforts have ended. As we shift from addressing urgent needs to long-term rebuilding, consider supporting local fly shops, and guides by purchasing gift cards or certificates. These small businesses desperately need the revenue as they work to get back on their feet. If you had a scheduled trip or outing with a local guide, try to reschedule rather than cancel and request a refund. Your spending in these communities can make a significant impact in helping them rebuild and recover.
As we look ahead, it’s crucial to continue supporting these communities to ensure that those affected have the resources they need to rebuild their lives. With that in mind, AFFTA will continue to provide ongoing updates and information in the months ahead.
While the road ahead will be long and challenging, the outpouring of support in the wake of Helene has been inspiring. From neighbors helping neighbors to volunteers from across the country arriving to lend a hand, it’s clear that the spirit of community and resilience is stronger than any storm.
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