In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on Upper East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, communities are rallying together to support relief efforts. Here at the Greater Chattanooga Realtors, members have been donating crucial supplies to help support this mission.
Another way you can make a significant difference is by contributing to the Realtors Relief Foundation (RRF), which provides housing-related assistance directly to those affected by disasters like Hurricane Helene. RRF ensures that 100% of all donations go directly to victims, as they absorb all administrative costs. Donations can be made easily by texting HeleneRelief24 to 71777 or by visiting the RRF website at the provided link: https://bit.ly/HeleneRelief.
REALTORS® from all over the United States have also joined the efforts. Melissa Dittman Tracey from REALTOR® Magazine reports that NAR members and REALTOR® associations are raising funds, organizing donation drives, and helping cleanup efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene—all as a new storm threatens Florida.
As Florida braces for Hurricane Milton, the second major storm in a week to put the Sunshine State in its crosshairs, communities across six states are still recovering from Hurricane Helene. Real estate professionals have rushed to help storm victims by organizing donation drives, helping displaced residents salvage their belongings and even taking part in helicopter rescue missions.
Donations for the victims have poured in nationwide: The REALTORS® Relief Foundation has raised $526,000 as of Wednesday morning for housing-related assistance for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
“From the moment Hurricane Helene made landfall, REALTORS® were taking action to help,” says RRF President Mike McGew. “The response to the RRF Hurricane Helene Relief Fund has been heartwarming and impactful, as more than 1,200 donors provided help to families for recovery and rebuilding. REALTORS® not only help families find a home, but they also help them return home.”
Real estate professionals are “deeply connected to the communities they serve,” says Tennessee REALTORS® President Regina Hubbard. Communities in East Tennessee were among those ravaged by massive flooding and storm damage. “For many of our members, this devastation and damage is in their own backyards—the neighborhoods they grew up in, the churches they attend, the roadways they travel on. These are their communities that need help,” Hubbard says. “As REALTORS®, we see our communities, and especially other REALTORS®, as family. So, helping out and giving back is something we’re very passionate about, and I’m proud to see the overwhelming support from throughout our state.”
For those looking to provide immediate support through tangible items, we are accepting supply donations at 2963 Amnicola Highway from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm daily. A list of suggested items can be found pinned on our Facebook page, making it easy to gather what is most needed. We would also like to thank all those that have donated and have delivered those supplies to those in need. By coming together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those struggling to recover from this disaster. #ThatsWhoWeR