Hurricane Helene's Death Toll Climbs to at Least 200. Here's How to Help Relief Efforts

Organizations such as the Red Cross and the Florida Disaster Fund are raising funds to help the victims of Hurricane Helene

As details on the full extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Helene continue to emerge, people from across the country are looking for ways to support those who have been impacted by the storm.

Helene was a Category 4 storm when it made landfall around 11:10 p.m. local time near Perry, Fla., on Thursday, Sept. 26. In just a matter of hours, Helene delivered damaging wind gusts as well as “catastrophic, life-threatening, [and] record-breaking” flooding in many areas, especially the higher terrains of the southeastern Appalachians.

Emergency crews have been working around the clock to rescue those trapped by flooding and road closures, but as of Thursday, Oct. 3, at least 200 people have died across six states. Additionally, hundreds more remain missing, per NBC News.

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Capt. Chad Arnold, who is part of the team rescuing people in the mountains of North Carolina, tells PEOPLE that the situation is “heartbreaking.” 

“It’s hard to describe. It’s a biblical event, something you would never expect to see or witness,” he adds. “The devastation is so bad.”

Related: South Carolina Couple Killed During Hurricane Helene Found Hugging Each Other in Bedroom

Several organizations have taken the initiative to begin gathering funds and other donations, including bottled water, food and medical supplies, to support those impacted by the storm.

Here are some organizations working to support victims of the hurricane.

United Way of Florida

Described on its website as an independent organization that works to "improve the quality of life in their communities," the UWOF is currently raising money for its Disaster Recovery Fund, which will assist all of the impacted communities in Florida across the state. Donors can also specify if they would like their funds to be sent to a specific location or county.

Florida Disaster Fund

The Florida Disaster Fund is described as "the State of Florida’s official private fund established to assist Florida’s communities as they respond to and recover during times of emergency or disaster." The Fund partners with both government organizations and other groups to support the state's local communities during natural disasters. Organizers are searching for financial donations, which can be given online or via mail.

Related: Dad's Last Message to Daughter Was to ‘Stay Safe’ During Hurricane Helene. Days Later, He Was Found Dead (Exclusive)

Red Cross

Red cross volunteers are already on the ground to help with recovery efforts, and a spokesperson told ABC affiliate WAPT that their focus is currently on helping people find shelter. Those interested in donating can do so at redcross.org.

North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund

The North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund was set up to "help provide for immediate unmet needs through reimbursements to nonprofits working with disaster survivors." All contributions will go directly to nonprofits helping their communities. Donations can be made online or via mail.

World Central Kitchen

José Andrés' nonprofit World Central Kitchen (WCK) has already sent five 6,200-gallon water trucks to Asheville, N.C. — located in Buncombe County, where at least 61 people have died — and they're also working in Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. Additionally, they're partnering with a number of local food trucks and restaurants to offer free meals. Those interested in donating can do so here.

The One SC Fund

The One SC Fund is a statewide initiative that is focused on supporting local nonprofits that are providing disaster relief and recovery in South Carolina.

Samaritan's Purse

The charity, run by evangelist Franklin Graham,  is focused on providing relief throughout the mountains of Watauga County, N.C., which is home to its international headquarters, and has been impacted by flooding, road damage, a lack of power and water, as well as toppled trees. The organization is providing relief to Buncombe County, parts of eastern Tennessee and has set up bases in other states. Donations are accepted online.

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