National Philoptochos Delivers Hope: Responding to Hurricane Helene Devastation with $50,000 in Critical Relief Aid

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Damage from a fallen tree during the remnants of Hurricane Helene is shown on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, in the Oak Forest neighborhood of Asheville, N.C. // Associated Press

 New York, NY – October 4, 2024 – In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane on Thursday, September 26, 2024, in Florida's Big Bend region, the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society is providing crucial financial support for relief efforts. The storm left widespread devastation across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and beyond, with the death toll rising to 227 and a significant number of people still unaccounted for.  

In response to the urgent need for assistance, National Philoptochos has committed $25,000 to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) and an additional $25,000 to Samaritan's Purse to support their ongoing recovery efforts. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in helping communities rebuild and heal from this tragedy.  

IOCC's US Program is actively involved in disaster response, participating in regular coordination calls with National and State Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and briefings from FEMA and other emergency management agencies. On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, the IOCC Hurricane Helene Phase I project deployed an assessment team to the impacted region to determine the area’s most needed assistance. The initial three weeks of response will include critical cleanup services, provision of essentials such as water, food, and power assistance, and emotional and spiritual care. For our donation to IOCC via this disbursement and future Phases, we will be kept regularly informed and receive full accountability from IOCC, as we have previously done with previous disbursements, formal proposals, and grant requests. IOCC's Phase II response is already in the planning stages, and these vital efforts will be extended into the coming weeks and months.  

Samaritan's Purse, a highly regarded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a proven, adequate disaster relief track record, headquartered in Boone, North Carolina, is also a key partner in supporting the recovery from Hurricane Helene. They have deployed disaster response specialists to Perry, FL; Tampa, FL; Valdosta, GA; Boone, NC; and Asheville, NC. They have sent tractor-trailers with the necessary tools and equipment to serve as operational bases. Their quick and effective disaster response aligns with Philoptochos' mission of extending compassion and support to those in need.  

National Philoptochos is proud to support IOCC and Samaritan's Purse in their God-inspired missions to aid survivors efficiently and effectively. We are grateful to answer the call, "How can we help?" by contributing to these life-saving efforts.  

Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected by the hurricane, and we continue to ask God for strength and peace for the victims and their families as they navigate the difficult road ahead.  

The Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos, in collaboration with their Social Services Committee, will implement the same process used after Hurricane Ian in 2022 to manage donations. Contributions will be received by the Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos, and, through a formal application and vetting process, funds and resources will be allocated on a case-by-case basis to Orthodox Christian families and individuals in greatest need. 

Donations for Greek Orthodox individuals and families in need can be sent to:

Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos, C/O Marty Driscoll,
1228 Sherlock Drive,
Marietta, Georgia 30066 

Your generosity and compassion can make a significant difference. Thank you for your support. 

National Philoptochos, the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, is committed to supporting charitable, humanitarian, and educational initiatives domestically and abroad. With a rich history of philanthropic work, National Philoptochos strives to positively impact the lives of those in need and promote the values of love, compassion, and service.
For more info, check out philoptochos.org

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