Volunteering & Helping
Updated Oct. 22: Restrictions regarding Donations and Volunteerism
Due to the incredible outpouring of support, organizations throughout Buncombe County have received an influx of physical donations like clothes, shoes and water. We can’t accept any more, because we simply don’t have the resources available to store and distribute them. We encourage anyone who wants to assist to make financial contributions to reputable organizations supporting Helene recovery.
The sentiment extends to volunteers, as well. We have a strong presence from FEMA and emergency response teams from across the state and around the country. The county doesn’t have opportunities available right now for volunteers to work outside of the emergency response structure. We want to respect people’s time and energy, so we gently ask that they only come here if government agencies request their presence or if they have pre-arranged opportunities with community organizations.
DONATION CENTERS
The most impactful way to support the recovery effort at this time is monetary donations to recognized disaster relief organizations:
United Way
Community Foundation of Western North Carolina’s Emergency and Disaster Response Fund
Asheville Chamber of Commerce
10/17/25 Update:
If you would like to make a physical donation of supplies, we recommend getting in touch with one of the following organizations in advance.
- Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM)
- BeLoved
- Bounty and Soul
- Hearts with Hands
- Manna Food Bank
If you have donations, equipment, or questions about specific needs, email helenedonations@buncombecounty.org. While donations and supplies are appreciated, our operations team has asked to remind the community that donations should not be dropped off at fire stations or other emergency facilities as space is limited and can hinder operations on the ground.
AGRICULTURE DONATION
Anyone interested in donating hay, feed, and fencing supplies to assist farmers can fill out a brief form in the Animal Livestock Relief portal. For current drop-off locations, hours and types of items needed and accepted, visit here.
Farm businesses with damages directly related to Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for the WNC Communities’ Immediate Disaster Needs grant program. Farm businesses with damages directly related to Tropical Storm Helene are eligible. This grant is meant to provide resources quickly for farms with urgent needs that impact the ability to get the farm business back in operation as soon as possible. Go to wnccommunities.org or please email: grants@wnccommunities.org.
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services hotline is active. This hotline is to connect farmers with resources that can assist with damage and other agricultural emergencies related to the storm. The toll-free number is 1-866-645-9403. A live operator will be available on the hotline between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Learn more about local support from WNC Communities.
For those in need of hay, feed or other essential livestock goods and services, there are two ways to request assistance:
1. Fill out the Livestock Assistance Form online
2. If you are unable to fill out the Livestock Assistance Form, you may also call the hotline: 1-866-645-9403
MEDICATION DONATIONS
ABCCM Medical Clinic: 155 Livingston St., Asheville 28801 is accepting donations of medications from 9 a.m. – noon, Monday through Thursday this week.
Requirements for what medications can be donated:
- Only sealed manufacturer bottles
- Not expired
- Do not require refrigeration (like insulin)
- No controlled substances
- No cancer medications
- Not in amber/orange prescription bottles
ABCCM Medical Clinic: 155 Livingston St., Asheville also provides primary healthcare to all adults.
REGISTER TO BE A VOLUNTEER
Updated Oct. 22: Restrictions regarding Donations and Volunteerism
Due to the incredible outpouring of support, organizations throughout Buncombe County have received an influx of physical donations like clothes, shoes and water. We can’t accept any more, because we simply don’t have the resources available to store and distribute them. We encourage anyone who wants to assist to make financial contributions to reputable organizations supporting Helene recovery.
The sentiment extends to volunteers, as well. We have a strong presence from FEMA and emergency response teams from across the state and around the country. The county doesn’t have opportunities available right now for volunteers to work outside of the emergency response structure. We want to respect people’s time and energy, so we gently ask that they only come here if government agencies request their presence or if they have pre-arranged opportunities with community organizations.
Volunteers and donations must be coordinated to ensure the needs of the community are fully met. Visit handsonasheville.org for more information.
Updated Nov 13, 2024 09:51 AM