Here’s what you can do to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene

Soon after Hurricane Helene devastated the southeastern U.S., Pack 214 of Matthews, N.C., jumped into action.

The Cub Scouts quickly collected nonperishable food, drinks, cleaning supplies and toiletries and delivered them to a local airport, where volunteer pilots with Operation Airdrop were gathering to deliver supplies to airports near some of the most overwhelmed areas.

The pack didn’t stop at that one Good Turn. After a regular meeting, many of the Cub Scouts noticed members of their charter organization, the Matthews United Methodist Church, were loading hundreds of cases of water that would be sent to those in need. The Cub Scouts asked how they could help and went to work.

How you can help

Hurricane Helene killed more than 200 people, and recovery efforts could climb into the tens of billions of dollars. Scouting programs and council camps in the hurricane’s path were also impacted by the storm.

You can help by donating to the Scouting Emergency Assistance Fund. This National Boy Scouts of America Foundation fund supports Scouting America councils and employees affected by natural disasters. It helps staff members and councils as they rebuild their communities and care for their families.

Be Prepared

Hurricane season isn’t over. After a natural disaster, you might want to go and help, but it’s important that you and your Scouts don’t also become victims.

Floodwaters can be full of chemicals and other contaminants, damaged houses could fall, and downed power lines pose a deadly hazard. Enter areas only when safety can be guaranteed.

Before serving, review Scouting America’s service project planning checklist as well as these Safety Moments, which cover topics like chainsaw use, generators and weather-related safety.

You can also check with local and national relief organizations to see how you can help. Donating supplies is an important part of any recovery effort.