Dear Friends, 

Hurricane Helene has caused incredible destruction over the past six days. Across the south, we are gradually discovering the full extent of devastation and loss of life, and the stories we have heard are heartbreaking. In Augusta, trash and debris are blocking and contaminating water filtration systems, leaving hundreds of thousands to conserve water. In Vidalia, the situation is equally dire, with reports indicating that no personal property was left untouched by the storm.

Energy workers throughout Georgia are facing “treacherous conditions” while restoring power to residents. From Valdosta to Metro Atlanta, homes have been severely damaged by flooding, submerged cars floated in the street and fallen trees and “water inundat[ed] streets and houses.”

As with any fight, we know we cannot face this alone.

Along with our neighbors in North and South Carolina, we have joined forces with our friends at Organizing Resilience to maximize our efforts in helping our communities rebuild. 

Will you chip in $25 or whatever you can afford to their Hurricane Helene Response Fund? All donations will be directed to nonprofits and mutual aid groups on the ground who are working around the clock to get aid where it’s needed most.

Incredible grassroots leaders have been instrumental in sending organizers into the field to assess needs to ensure the safety and well-being of those hit the hardest. Their teams are working tirelessly to deliver essentials like generators, food, and cases of clean water. 

As recovery efforts continue, immediate needs include generators and battery-powered chargers to help families reconnect with their loved ones. Officials in Augusta have been distributing water across the area as water service is suspended city-wide. Communities and local organizations are mobilizing resources and organizing rapid response efforts to save lives and protect people, and we will need to push for significant federal assistance as the road to rebuilding will be long and uncertain. 

Can you help us reach those in need? Rush a donation right now to the Hurricane Helene Response Fund, hosted by our partners at Organizing Resilience.

In times of crisis, we are reminded that there is strength in coming together. When we ensure the well-being of our neighbors, uplift their voices and push for equitable access, we affirm their humanity and reinforce our identity as a community. Your support is critical as we work to secure both immediate relief and long-term solutions to protect our people and our democracy. 

Thank you for helping our communities during this difficult time.

Stacey Abrams
Fair Fight Action