Hurricane Helene Relief: How We’ve Made a Difference

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Rapid Response to Immediate Needs & Long-Term Recovery

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the United Way of Caldwell County quickly mobilized to support the hardest-hit families. Within just four days, we raised and distributed over 3,000 essential supplies, including food, water, cleaning products, diapers, and medical supplies.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, we didn’t wait for people to come to us—we went directly into the affected areas, particularly Collettsville, to reach the most devastated households. Volunteers from the United Way worked alongside the Rotary Club of Lenoir to distribute supplies in an assembly-line fashion, ensuring that no family’s needs went unmet. Every household had unique challenges, and we adapted quickly to provide what was most essential.

Beyond our local relief efforts, we expanded our reach thanks to community partnerships:

• 10,000 additional supplies were donated by the generous people of Tarboro, NC.

• The Downtown Lenoir Development Alliance’s Wood, Fire, Smoke Festival collected another 5,000 supplies for families in need.

• In total, the United Way of Caldwell County collected and distributed more than 15,000 supplies, demonstrating the strength of our community coming together in times of crisis.

Ongoing Commitment to Rebuilding & Supporting Families

While immediate relief was critical, our work did not stop there. Since the hurricane, we have expanded programs and services to provide long-term support for families still facing hardship:

• Expanded our Backpack Program—we now serve 150 children weekly across six schools, ensuring food security for more students in need.

• Increased disaster recovery assistance, continuing to provide families with food, clothing, and household supplies as they rebuild their lives.

• Developed long-term partnerships with local organizations to provide sustained aid for hurricane-impacted residents.

• Continued to offer direct support to families affected by financial hardship, helping them access community resources and emergency assistance.

Our mission is to support, rebuild, and strengthen our community, ensuring that no family is left behind. Whether in times of crisis or recovery, United Way of Caldwell County remains committed to helping those in need—because together, we are stronger.

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Hurricane Helene Relief Fund: Empowering Recovery
In addition to supply distribution, the United Way launched the Hurricane Helene Relief Fund, raising over $96,000 to support ongoing recovery efforts. So far, we’ve distributed $63,000 directly to families through Visa gift cards, empowering them to meet their most urgent needs—whether for food, fuel, or home repairs. We've also distributed $10,020 to Caldwell County nonprofits providing food for hurricane victims.

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We would like to thank Bernhardt Furniture Company, Google, Fairfield Chair, FleetGenius, Brews and Mews, City Grind, and many individuals for their contributions. 

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Phase 3 Funding - Open 

The remaining $24,000 will continue to support recovery through Phase 3 of funding. Caldwell County residents can apply for assistance.

One application per household is allowed. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2025.

To be eligible for funding:

• You MUST be a resident of Caldwell County to apply​

• One application per household.

• Assistance is available for essential needs. Eligible households will receive a gift card to help recoup losses such as food, clothing, and other expenses caused by the hurricane.