In the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Wayne County is mobilizing to support our fellow North Carolinians who have been severely impacted in the western part of the state.
Communities have been left isolated by flooding, and many residents are in dire need of basic supplies and assistance.
Wayne County has partnered with the United Way of Wayne County and Fairwinds Aviation to facilitate both monetary and supply donations for those in need.
Monetary Donations
Donations can be made to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, which directly supports nonprofit organizations meeting the immediate needs of storm victims. This includes providing food, water, cleaning supplies, and other emergency necessities.
Donations can be made online at: nc211.org/uwhelpsnc-helene-recovery-fund/. All contributions go directly to disaster relief efforts.
Supply Donations
In partnership with United Way of Wayne County, we are collecting essential items to be flown into the hardest-hit areas via Operation Airdrop.
Supplies can be dropped off at the Wayne Executive Jetport at 240 Aviation Dr NE, Pikeville, NC 27863, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily until Friday. These supplies will be flown by volunteer pilots to locations that remain inaccessible by road.
We are seeking a variety of essential supplies to assist those in need, including sports drinks in powdered packets, hydration packs, baby wipes, diapers for both children and adults, and baby formula.
Items like bug spray, sunscreen, plastic utensils, manual can openers, trash bags (either 13-gallon or contractor size), and non-perishable food are also greatly needed.
Additional items being collected include cleaning supplies, plastic sheeting or tarps, toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and sanitation items, as well as pet food for dogs and cats.
Other important items include hand sanitizer, sanitizer wipes, feminine hygiene products, heavy-duty work gloves, and unopened socks of all sizes.
If you are interested in helping, whether through monetary donations or by providing critical supplies, we welcome your support in aiding the recovery efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene.
Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow North Carolinians.
