Hurricane Helene
— Florida Fish and Wildlife
Helene made landfall in Florida late evening on September 26th as a very dangerous category 4 hurricane. The impact of Helene has been felt across multiple states. With the storm surge, wind damage, and flooding, it is crucial to have the necessary resources to support the many communities that are affected. Helene caused devastating damage in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Your generous gifts will bring hope and encouragement.
To support our response, designate gifts to DR000169
Update 10/30/24
More than $150,000 in grants have been distributed to the affected presbyteries for immediate unmet needs as identified by the community--this can include but is not limited to potable water, hygiene items, medical care, shelter, fuel and more. We learn exactly how the funds are used when we receive the reports a few months after funds are disbursed. PDA staff have been on the ground meeting with affected presbyteries over the last week. News articles covering the meetings are linked below under "Updates & News."
PDA remains committed for the long haul and we will continue to be involved in this response for years to come.
Update, 10/3/24:
It was one week ago that Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida. Although Helene is gone, the impacts across a 500 mile span will be felt for years to come. Rescue efforts continue in many communities. First responders continue to work around the clock, however, many communities are still inaccessible.
PDA is part of a large and dedicated community of disaster response organizations. PDA has three initial deployment teams in Tampa Bay Presbytery, Holston Presbytery (Eastern Tennessee), and Western North Carolina Presbytery. Two additional deployments are scheduled to Northeast Georgia Presbytery and Foothills Presbytery (South Carolina).
In addition, PDA has sent six initial assistance grants to six Presbyteries to support unmet immediate needs and two church damage grants. We anticipate additional grant requests.
Progress is being made but much emergency/response work needs to happen to restore basic services. Please continue to pray for survivors, those who have experienced loss of loved ones, and responders.
Know that your support of PDA is addressing immediate needs and will provide the necessary resources to support the long-term recovery, which will take many years.
