Our hearts and thoughts are with all those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. In times like these, the nation pulls together, and many people across the country are searching for ways to lend a hand and provide support.
AmpleHarvest.org, as a nationwide nonprofit that has enabled America’s gardeners to do their part, encourages everyone, especially those who are currently harvesting from their gardens, to recognize that the key to combating hunger lies right in their own backyards. Your generosity can make a significant difference. Whether it’s your surplus harvest, non-perishable items, or even a monetary donation, every bit helps in alleviating the struggles faced by those impacted by this disaster.
For those who were fortunate enough to be outside the hurricane’s destructive path and wish to donate their surplus harvest or contribute in some other way, we urge you to
1. Wait until the roads are clear and its safe for you to travel to an impacted food pantry.
2. Visit AmpleHarvest.org/findpantry to locate a food pantry in the impacted area. Call or email to assure that they are operational and can accept your donations. This step helps to streamline the process and ensures that your contributions reach those in need as efficiently as possible.
3. If you can afford it, consider donating store bought items along with the surplus harvest you want to donate.
4. Consider volunteering your time or skills to local relief efforts. Every action, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on rebuilding communities and providing much-needed aid to those who are suffering.
AmpleHarvest.org has helped gardeners in the regions listed above, help their communities recover following natural and manmade disasters. In North Carolina and the surrounding areas, businesses have been forced to temporarily close or have been totally destroyed. Food pantries will be overwhelmed with people needing more food than ever. The State and Federal governments as well as many nonprofits are quickly stepping in to help.
FEMA and other first responding organizations are the first boots on the ground but will be there only for a limited time. Gardeners in the region however can help when its safe and continue to help long after FEMA and others have moved on.
Together, we can help bring relief and hope to our neighbors in need. Thank you for your compassion and willingness to support during this challenging time.
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