Appalachian Helene Response Fund

About

Appalachia, USA – In the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene across Appalachia, the Appalachia Funders Network (AFN) is announcing the creation of the Appalachian Helene Response Fund. This pooled relief fund is designed to provide immediate and sustained support to communities across the six states hardest hit by the storm.

The Appalachian Helene Response Fund will be a collaborative effort organized by AFN at the specific request of funders and organizations in the area, many of whom are still without power or reliable communication. Individuals may contribute to the fund immediately.

"Even as recovery efforts begin, I am deeply aware that many of our own members, leaders, and community partners are among those most affected. In fact, I am personally awaiting news on the safety of family and friends, including several AFN leaders who live in the impacted areas. This storm has challenged us in ways we never anticipated, but it has also revealed the true solidarity of our community. We are uniting as a region to ensure that no one is left behind in this recovery process."

The Appalachian Helene Response Fund will channel resources directly to the areas of greatest need, leveraging the reach and local knowledge of AFN’s 70+ member organizations across the region. These members, deeply rooted in their communities, will ensure that aid is distributed swiftly and equitably, prioritizing the hardest-hit areas.

About the Host

The Appalachia Funders Network (AFN) is a collaboration of more than 70 philanthropic organizations and partners working across six states in Central Appalachia. Our mission is to accelerate an equitable Appalachian transition by aligning resources and strategies for shared learning, investment, and advocacy. AFN members are committed to building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient region.