The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington is requesting donations to its disaster relief fund to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene.
“In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the needs are significant and urgent – especially in western North Carolina,” Joe Gillmer, the archdiocesan executive director of development, said in an appeal seeking disaster relief donations. “Our brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Charlotte are facing unprecedented challenges as they grapple with severe flooding, which has damaged homes, schools, and essential infrastructure.”
Hurricane Helene slammed into Florida on Sept. 26 as a Category 4 storm, and slashed a deadly path across six states. As of Oct. 4, the storm – one of the deadliest in U.S. history – has claimed more than 200 lives. That death toll is expected to rise as hundreds of people are still reported as missing. More than half of the known deaths were in North Carolina.
The storm caused massive flooding with several feet of fast-moving water destroying entire communities, particularly in the western part of the state, which is in the Diocese of Charlotte.
Tens of thousands of people there have no running water and many areas are cut off due to the flooding and unsafe road conditions. One week after the storm, and more than 780,000 people are still without electricity and lack the ability to get essential supplies.
“As we witness the devastation unfold, it’s crucial that we come together as a community of faith to support those in need,” Gillmer said in his appeal. “We are grateful to support the disaster relief efforts provided by organizations like the Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities. At this time, financial support and essential items are needed to help with rescue and rebuilding efforts.”
He asked that donations be made online at https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp6126bf78d1a43/user/guest
“Every dollar raised will be sent to the affected dioceses,” Gillmer said in his appeal. “Your support can bring hope and relief to those who have lost so much. Together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of our fellow Catholics facing this disaster.”
