Disaster Relief

In times of disaster, every United Way works diligently to organize resources and connect those in need with those who can help, support volunteer efforts, and bridge communication to ensure our neighbors have the support they need to recover. 

Although the storm has passed, the devastation left in Helene’s wake across Northeast Tennessee and Western North Carolina is heart breaking.

Your support is crucial in this time of need. Together, we can make a difference and help rebuild our communities. If you’re in need of support, please call 211. In addition to information on this page, stay connected with us on our social media platforms for the latest information.

Donations – Money

• Northeast Tennessee: Click here to donate to the United Way of East Tennessee Highlands Disaster Relief Fund.
• Western North Carolina: Click here to donate to the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County Disaster Relief Fund.
• Southeastern United States: United Way Worldwide has established a fund to direct resources to local United Ways addressing critical needs across affected states. Click here to donate.

Donations – Items

Knox County

• YMCA of East Tennessee Locations – Donations can be dropped off at any Knoxville YMCA by Oct. 2. Supplies will be delivered to the Unicoi YMCA on Oct. 3.
  • Bottled water
  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Portable phone chargers
• Knox County Public Works Building – 205 W. Baxter Ave. for Cocke County distribution.
  • Bottled Water
• The Birdhouse Neighborhood Center – 800 N. Fourth Ave. from 9am-7pm on 9/30, 10/2, & 10/4
  • Bottled water
  • Protein bars
  • Jerky
  • Medical supplies
  • Battery packs
  • Portable cell phone chargers

Blount County

• Second Harvest of East Tennessee – 136 Harvest Lane, Maryville, TN 37801
  • Bottled water ONLY

Greene County

• Greeneville Municipal Airport – 246 Airport Rd, Greeneville, TN 37745 – Donations can be dropped off from 10am-2pm.
  • Bottled water ONLY

Volunteering

• TEMA urges civilians not to self-deploy to disaster areas, as road conditions remain dangerous and unplanned traffic can hinder organized relief efforts.
• The American Red Cross is recruiting volunteers to support temporary shelters in Northeast Tennessee. Training is required. Click here for more information.
• We will post service opportunities on our volunteer webpage as they become available.