Relief efforts have already helped countless families affected by the tornadoes across our state, but there are still many ways you can help out those in need. Donate your time, make a financial contribution or contribute items to those in need. The following organizations have a multitude of volunteer or donation opportunities.
Inter-Faith Food Shuttle
The Inter-Faith Food Shuttle has been distributing more than 10 tons of emergency food per day and serving hot meals to those in need since the tornadoes ravaged the state. IFFS offers multiple ways to help.
Online: visit www.foodshuttle.org to make a financial contribution.
In person: Come to Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, 1001 Blair Drive, in Raleigh, NC to donate or volunteer. There is no need to call, just come. Volunteers are needed between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. and should wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. The warehouse might be warm.
Volunteers will be needed on Saturday at Stony Brook. Please call (919) 250-0043 for details.
Items most needed: Water, juice, pop-top fruit cups and canned meats, deli items like sandwiches and salads, snack items like bars or crackers, cereal. Money and gas cards are also requested.
HopeLine
In addition to material losses, many experience an overwhelming emotional side of this tragedy. The devastation may last months for some; for others, it will last a lifetime. HopeLine is a free 24-hour crisis intervention hotline that is experiencing an increase in calls from people affected by this disaster.
It’s easier than ever to help HopeLine meet its current increased demand. Simply visit one of the many Wachovia Bank locations in Wake, Durham, Orange, Cumberland, Greene, Pitt or Bertie Counties; mention the HopeLine Fund to the bank staff and with your tax-deductible donation, you can help restore hope where it has been lost!
If you are feeling sad, depressed, angry or hopeless, HopeLine can help! If you are in need, please call (919) 231-4525 or toll-free 1 (800) 235-4525. For more information, visit www.hopeline-nc.org.
American Red Cross
Rush Hour Karting in Garner will host a special fundraising event on Friday, May 20, to benefit one of the biggest names in disaster relief, the American Red Cross. As part of this “Karting for a Cause” effort, Rush Hour Karting will donate 100 percent of all net proceeds for the entire day to the American Red Cross. Rush Hour Karting is located in the White Oak Business Park at 5335 Raynor Road in Garner, and will be open from noon to midnight on May 20.
Donations are accepted online at www.redcross.org.
To donate via phone, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Mailed contributions may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter, or to:
American Red Cross
P.O. Box 37243
Washington, D.C.
20013
If you choose to send your donation to the above address, please specify which fund you would like your donation to go to in the memo line of your check.
