Hurricane Helene: "Don't forget about us."

A quick update from my visit with survivors in Georgia and North Carolina

It’s hard to find the words.

The apocalyptic devastation I saw in North Carolina is difficult to describe. The resilience of people who have lost everything can’t easily be conveyed — but I’ve seen it before. In the residents of West Maui last year in the wake of the tragic fires that completely decimated the historic town of Lahaina and many homes in the surrounding areas.

In both cases, I stood in awe of their resilience, strength, and what we in Hawaii call the aloha spirit — even those who lost everything, stepping up to do all they can for their neighbors, friends, and those in need.

Unfortunately, much like we saw on Maui, there are still many people who are not getting the assistance they need. Communications are still down in many isolated areas and small towns. The closest thing they have to emergency services is a volunteer fire department. Their limited emergency resources have been quickly overwhelmed and nobody from FEMA has come or knocked on their door to offer assistance.

There are volunteers who are helping out wherever possible. We delivered a trailer full of chainsaws, leaf blowers, shovels, rakes, generators, fuel, oil, water, and electrolytes. They are trying to survive and recover what little is left. The thought of rebuilding is difficult to comprehend at this moment. What does that look like? What will it take? How long will it take? The heartfelt message I heard again and again from those facing the challenge of their lifetime was, “Don’t forget us.”

I truly thank God and all of you for the quick response and thousands of generous donations to my all-volunteer nonprofit We Must Protect. In less than a week, we’ve raised $331,833 and every dollar is going to Hurricane Helene survivors.

With your selfless contributions and a gracious, significant bulk discount from Lowe’s, we were able to distribute equipment to help clear roads and remove debris. We brought in toiletries, first aid kits, and other essentials that survivors desperately need. I’m getting requests for more emergency supplies and we are working to continue delivering direct support. I will keep you updated.

Thank you for standing with our fellow Americans in their time of need. We don’t know yet how many lives have been lost, but we do know that there are thousands of people in the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Virginia who are struggling and need our help.

Here’s a short video that shares just a snapshot of what I experienced in North Carolina. It’s not just the wreckage, but the voices of our fellow Americans sharing what they are going through, and how we can help. We have to make sure they are not forgotten. It’s going to be a long road ahead. Let’s continue to support them in any way we can.

Thank you for your help, your aloha, and your compassion.

With gratitude,

Tulsi