A current assessment and resources for those affected
Hurricane Milton made landfall in western Florida yesterday, leaving nine dead and nearly 3.5 million residents and 165 health care facilities without power. Over 80,000 Floridians are currently being supported by nearly 300 operating shelters. In a twist of fate, Hillsborough County, which had offered comfort stations, income eligible hotel assistance and FEMA assistance to those impacted by Hurricane Helene’s September 26 landfall, was suddenly forced to end those services in preparation for incoming Hurricane Milton.
The full damage of Hurricane Milton is currently under assessment, as southeastern states are still reeling from Hurricane Helene’s trail of destruction. In western North Carolina, government agencies and local residents have come together tirelessly to salvage the wreckage and ensure everyone’s safety. The storm resulted in at least 230 fatalities, with unprecedented rainfall causing significant flooding in the region.
In Buncombe County, major infrastructure damage—particularly to the main water plant at North Fork—has created significant challenges in restoring access to basic needs. Residents have shown remarkable resilience and community spirit, from sharing and distributing supplies to performing heroic rescues and supporting one another through heartbreaking recoveries.
Hurricane Helene has left many in distress, and assessments of current needs are ongoing. For immediate assistance, monetary donations to on-the-ground organizations are often recommended, as these funds help those affected manage urgent expenses and prepare for what will be a lengthy restoration process. Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer candidly stated to reporters, “I can’t even think about a time frame for how long it’s going to take to recover.”
We’ve researched several ways to assist those in need:
Always Asheville Fund: Established by the nonprofit organization Explore Asheville, the Always Asheville Fund supports small, independent travel and hospitality businesses through grants. “We are committed to supporting the livelihood and vitality of Asheville’s small business owners,” Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism and Development Authority, said. “We’ll continue developing innovative and responsive solutions to walk alongside our partners on the road to recovery. It’s our aim that the Asheville area will emerge on the other side of this stronger and more vibrant than ever.”
The SEARCH Foundation: The SEARCH Foundation has been providing event, meetings and catering professionals emergency assistance since 1997, and is accepting applications for crisis funds for those affected by Hurricane Helene. The organization has also compiled additional resource options, such as United Way of North Carolina, Operation Airdrop and Chabad of Asheville.
Businesses large and small are also stepping up to provide aid, such as Marriott International, which is contributing to the American Red Cross and World Central Kitchen, and allowing Marriott Bonvoy members to use their points to make donations.
GlobalGiving partners, a top-rated charity on Charity Navigator, launched Hurricane Milton Relief Fund to meet urgent needs for food, fuel, clean water and shelter.
