Artist Resources After Hurricane Helene

Many folks in the southeast found themselves in the middle of a massive hurricane – including myself. Hurricane Helene destroyed homes, lives, and so much more. While I’m incredibly grateful to have come through safely, we know many are facing devastating losses—homes, businesses, and loved ones. Our hearts go out to all those affected.

In light of this, we’ve compiled a list of resources to help those in need. If you’re local and struggling to find the assistance you need, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. We’re here to help however we can.

One key resource we’d like to mention is The Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+). They offer vital support to craft artists facing disaster-related challenges, including emergency relief and readiness grants to help artists prepare for future emergencies. If you’re an artist impacted by the hurricane, please connect with CERF+ when you’re ready.

To donate to CERF+ and support their efforts, use the following link: Donate to CERF+

Disaster recovery

• Find the latest Hurricane Helene information from FEMA, including post-storm safety tips and how to find shelters. This includes links to local information for those in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Finding loved ones

• The Red Cross is providing assistance with finding friends and family impacted by the storm.
• Tennessee: You can report missing persons in the areas affected by recent flooding to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation hotline at 1-800-824-3463.

Financial assistance

• Find out if you qualify for disaster financial assistance. You could get unemployment benefits, help buying groceries, and more.

Safety

• Read the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statement on safety and enforcement during Hurricane Helene. The information is available in multiple languages.
• The U.S. Census Bureau’s Hurricane Helene page offers safety information, news on emergency declarations, and more.

Health

• Mental health – Call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. The national hotline provides free 24/7, crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. Deaf and hard-of-hearing ASL callers can use a videophone or ASL Now.
• The Defense Health Agency announced temporary prescription refill waivers and help with emergency fills for TRICARE beneficiaries in states and counties affected by Hurricane Helene. Find information for:
  • Georgia beneficiaries
  • Florida beneficiaries
  • North Carolina beneficiaries
• Check military hospital and clinic websites in areas affected by Hurricane Helene for closures and other important information.

If you’re an artist or community member seeking assistance, we encourage you to take advantage of these resources. Stay safe, and remember, the art community is here to support you through this difficult time.

Artist credit: Evelyne Alcide, Port Au Prince, Haiti | Seisme (Earthquake), 2010 | Featured in The Arts of Survival