Hurricane Relief 2024

From the Earth Matters Committee

Historical Danger to Creation

The recent disasters that have struck Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia* have been devastating beyond words and explanation. Hurricanes Helene and Milton, respectively, have been record-breaking in their destruction. These storms are proof that we are facing historical dangers to creation; the very integrity of creation for which we are to care is in jeopardy.

*Click each state name for the official FEMA information about the impact on these areas.

It cannot be overstated that these storms are getting worse with time as our world continues to be impacted by climate change.

“Climate scientists noted that Helene’s rapid intensification and overall severity was further proof of the effect of climate change on hurricane strength. Studies report that the Gulf of Mexico has warmed approximately 0.34 °F (0.19 °C) per decade since 1970, more than twice the rate of the oceans at large. The presence of such unusually warm water in the Gulf of Mexico in 2024 allowed Helene to grow exceptionally fast and store enough moisture to release, by some accounts, as much as 40 trillion gallons (151 trillion liters) of rain over the southeastern U.S. (see also humidity).”
–John P. Rafferty, Britannica Hurricane Helene Storm Report 2024

As we continue to pray for the victims of these storms, we must also marry that prayer with action — actions that can lead us on a path toward education and giving back. Learn more about the efforts to help victims of these storms, the state of our climate, and how we can make a difference. And of course, donate to help others if you are able to.

How to Help and Get Involved

We encourage you to visit the following resources to learn more and to donate. These organizations will assure your donations are used as you intend.

Hurricane Helene Resources:
Catholic Charities Hurricane Helene response
North Carolina Diaper Bank
Food Banks in North Carolina
World Concern.org
The Humane Society Emergency Animal Relief Fund

Hurricane Milton Resources:
Catholic Charities of Central Florida
Catholic Charities USA General Relief Fund
Harry Chapin Food Bank
United Way of Florida
The Humane Society Emergency Animal Relief Fund