LDS Flow A comprehensive online experience for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, a catastrophic Category 4 storm that struck the southeastern United States on September 26, 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has mobilized to provide crucial humanitarian aid and support to affected communities.
The hurricane, which made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region with winds up to 140 mph and a record storm surge, has claimed over 100 lives and left widespread destruction in its wake. As the storm moved inland, it caused severe flooding, tornadoes, and mudslides across multiple states, prompting emergency declarations in Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Church Response:
- Disaster relief command centers established in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas
- Essential supplies including water, food, and hygiene kits dispatched to areas of greatest need
- Thousands of Church volunteers preparing to assist with clean-up efforts
Elder Quinn Millington, an Area Seventy overseeing the disaster response, acknowledged the unprecedented scale of the damage but expressed confidence in the resilience and compassion of local communities.
The Church’s relief efforts will span from Alabama across central Florida and northward through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Volunteers will focus on mucking out flooded homes, clearing debris, removing fallen trees, and tarping damaged roofs.
-Photo The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Elder Craig C. Christensen, president of the Church’s North America Southeast Area, emphasized the opportunity for local congregations to serve their communities in Christ-like ways during this challenging time.
“In doing so, we serve as the Savior did and exemplify the meaning of the name of His Church, the same name that is printed on those bright and recognizable yellow shirts that bring hope to their communities with a wheelbarrow and chainsaw in hand,”
Elder Christensen said.
While all missionaries in the region are reported safe, some Church buildings have sustained damage. Remarkably, the newly completed Tallahassee Florida Temple emerged unscathed despite its proximity to the hurricane’s landfall.
For those wishing to contribute to relief efforts, the Church encourages visiting JustServe.org for local service opportunities or donating to the Church’s Humanitarian Fund.
