HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Alabama disaster relief crews are assisting neighboring states with search and rescue efforts following Hurricane Helene.
Huntsville Utilities and Russellville Utilities are playing a crucial role in recovery efforts, assisting with repairs after the significant damage caused by the hurricane.
The American Red Cross is working hard to help families reconnect with loved ones affected by the storm. Those searching for missing family members can fill out a form here.
The organization urges people to provide as much detail as possible to improve the chances of locating their loved ones.
Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief is now on active deployment status. In conjunction with a mass feeding operation in Alma, Georgia, they are establishing cleanup and recovery efforts in Clearwater, South Carolina. The relief teams say this operation is expected to be long-term, and volunteers are needed to assist as much as possible.
They also remind the public that they do not collect or distribute donated items.
HOW TO HELP LOCALLY
Residents looking to help those affected by Hurricane Helene can donate supplies at fire stations throughout Lauderdale County.
The Lauderdale County Association of Volunteer Fire Departments is partnering with the Florence/Lauderdale Emergency Management Agency and Florence Fire & Rescue to collect supplies for communities impacted by flooding in East Tennessee.
Officials are asking for the following items:
- Buckets with lids
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable food
Donations can be dropped off at any of the five Florence Fire stations during normal business hours or at any of the 14 Lauderdale County Volunteer Fire Departments from Monday to Saturday.
If you plan to drop off items at a volunteer department, they ask that you contact them first.
Doomsday Haunt is collecting items on their opening weekend Oct. 4-6. They'll have a drop-off box for items like tampons and pads, first aid kits, hair brushes/combs.ties, personal hygiene items, chapstick, cat/dog food, pet essentials, flash lights, blankets, diapers/wipes/baby essentials.
The American Red Cross' Disaster Relief Fund has been activated to assist in relief efforts. If you wish to donate by mail, you can print and fill out a donation form and mail it to:
American Red Cross
PO Box 37839
Boone, IA 50037-0839
Donations can also be made via phone at:
1-800-435-7669
TDD Operator: 1-800-220-4095
Other Resources