Making a Meaningful Difference After Hurricane Helene: Why Every Effort Counts

Stephanie Strouth • June 27, 2025

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many of us are left with a heavy feeling that we can't do enough. The devastation is vast. Homes destroyed, communities displaced, and lives disrupted in ways that will take years to repair.

It’s common to feel like our small actions can't make a meaningful difference in the face of such immense loss and suffering. But the truth is, every effort, no matter how small, matters.

That box of diapers you gave allowed a mother to stop using a t-shirt as a makeshift diaper. That can of soup stopped someone’s stomach from growling all night. That flashlight helped a child feel safe in a shelter after being rescued from a roof they sat on all night before being rescued. What you do, makes a world of difference for these people.

The Weight of Feeling Helpless

When faced with a disaster of this magnitude, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the damage. Whether we’re watching footage on the news or hearing personal stories from those impacted, we might wonder: What can I possibly do to help when so much is needed? Donations feel inadequate, volunteering feels like a drop in the ocean, and even offering words of comfort can feel hollow. This sense of helplessness can sometimes paralyze us, making us question if anything we do can truly help.

A Ripple Effect

It’s important to remember that collective efforts, no matter how small individually, create a ripple effect. When many people contribute in small ways, it adds up to significant change. That $10 donation to a relief fund may feel inconsequential, but when combined with thousands of others, it can provide essential resources to those who have lost everything. What if no one gave because they felt like it wouldn’t be enough? Give the $10, and challenge a friend to do it too. Every box of supplies, every shared social media post raising awareness, and every kind word spoken to a friend affected by the storm contributes to the larger goal of recovery.

The Power of Presence

Sometimes, it’s not about doing something grand or giving a large sum of money. Simply showing up—whether for a family member, friend, or neighbor—can have a profound impact. When people are in crisis, they often feel alone. The emotional toll of losing their home or the fear of not knowing what comes next can be overwhelming. Just being there, listening to their stories, or offering a shoulder to cry on can provide comfort and remind them that they are not alone in their struggles.

Actions That Matter

There are many ways you can contribute to recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, and each one makes a difference:

Donating what you can: Whether it's money, clothes, or household items, there’s always a need for resources. Even small donations to relief organizations help fund long-term recovery efforts.

Volunteering your time: Many organizations need help distributing supplies, clearing debris, or offering emotional support to those affected. Even if you can only volunteer for a few hours, it makes a difference to someone.

Raising awareness: Share reputable fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, and confirmed news stories about the hurricane’s aftermath. Awareness encourages others to get involved.

Supporting local businesses: Many small businesses affected by the hurricane will struggle to recover. By purchasing goods or services from those in affected areas, you contribute to their rebuilding efforts.

Being emotionally available: Sometimes, the best thing you can do is just be present for someone who’s been impacted. Whether it's offering a meal, a conversation, or just a quiet moment of solidarity, your support can help people process their emotions and begin to heal.

Every Contribution Counts

It’s easy to forget that small, consistent efforts can create lasting change. Even if we can’t rebuild homes on our own or fund large recovery projects, we can contribute to the collective strength that rebuilds communities. One person might clear a yard of debris, while another provides a temporary home for a displaced family. Together, these actions restore what was lost and give people the strength to move forward.

We are Appalachian strong. For generations, we've been left to fend for ourselves, and that’s made us more than just survivors—it’s made us resourceful beyond measure. We know the power of community, of rallying together when times are tough. Alone, we may feel small, but together, we are unstoppable. Our strength is in our unity, our resilience. We don’t just endure—we rise. We are strong. We are Appalachian strong.

As Hurricane Helene fades from the headlines, we will continue to care for our region. Recovery takes time, and the efforts needed to rebuild will go on long after the immediate crisis passes. Your willingness to contribute now, even in small ways, is the foundation of hope for those affected. Your continued efforts will shine as we rebuilt in the months and years to come.

So, when that nagging feeling of “I’m not doing enough” creeps in, remember that you are part of something bigger- the Appalachians. Each act of kindness, donation, or show of support ripples out, helping to rebuild lives piece by piece. In the face of destruction, hope is often found in the smallest gestures—and they always matter.

Today, and every day moving forward, we are proud of our heritage because it has prepared us for this moment. Let’s show the world our grit.

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