October 29, 2024 — Hurricane Helene made landfall on the Florida Gulf Coast on September 26 as a Category 4 storm, tracking north and dealing a devastating blow to western North Carolina. More than 200 people were killed or reported missing after the storm, and power, drinkable water and food are still in short supply.
While the federal and state governments are doing their best to handle the crisis in North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia, volunteers and community members from across the nation have helped deliver additional aid.
PEF is working with the New York State AFL-CIO to spread the word and collect donations to the Union Community Fund. The fund functions like PEF’s own relief fund and is prioritizing all donations to provide relief for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
“I am encouraged by the leadership of unions in this state and across the nation to help our fellow union members and community down in North Carolina and in other parts of the nation where the storm hit,” said PEF President Wayne Spence. “I am hopeful that our aid can help bring much needed relief to the victims of this devasting storm.”
“As a Union Movement, we always come together in times like these to support our union families facing unimaginable challenges and hardship,” said NYS AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento. “The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left deep scars, and while it will take years to recover and rebuild, we can take meaningful action right now. The Union Community Fund, activated by the National AFL-CIO, assists those directly affected by the disaster. We are proud to contribute to making a real difference for the families impacted.”
A few other notable union efforts:
Members of the Communication Workers of America (CWA) are heavily involved on the ground, helping restore services in critically effected areas.
The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross “Hurricane Helene Relief” fund, even while their members were on strike in early October.
Members of the International Association of Fire Fighters in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina are volunteering in their communities to assist residents in need.