Hurricane Helene: How Nurses Can Help North Carolina

Where Nurses Can Volunteer

Many of you have been asking how to volunteer as a nurse in North Carolina for the Hurricane Helene relief efforts. So, I’ve put together a list of resources where you can sign up as a medical professional to volunteer your services, along with some organizations accepting donations and providing relief.

All organizations are asking you to not self-deploy. Always go through a recognized organization to ensure you’re following the right procedures. The North Carolina Nurses Association (NCNA) is working with state officials to coordinate volunteer efforts, and more opportunities may open up. For now, here are some options if you’re looking to get involved:

• North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services (ReadyOP)– They are seeking State Medical Assistance Team (SMAT) / Medical Reserve Corp (MRC) Personnel to indicate any availability to provide staffing assistance for medical sheltering operations. This form includes most medical professionals (RN/LPN, CNA, Respiratory Therapist, MD/DO, NP/PA, Paramedic, EMT, Pharmacist) 
• American Red Cross 
• VolunteerNC 
• North Carolina Board of Nursing Disaster Relief FAQs (includes information for out-of-state nurses interested in volunteering)

This resource list from the Appalachian Regional Commission includes a list of State Government and Emergency Management Resources for other states as well (GA, NC, SC, TN, VA).

The North Carolina Nurses Association has a list of resources to help nurses living and working in the affected areas. You can apply for assistance or donate to nurses in need through their recovery fund.

Nurses Leading the Way

Here are a few nurse-owned companies who are fundraising, collecting supplies for donation or offering services to support the relief efforts.

• Divine Drops is a nurse-led organization in High Point, NC that is sending feminine products to the area. Donate here. Watch Mikaela’s Instagram Post, sharing how they are helping.

   

• The Boobtique is a nurse-led prenatal education and lactation support company. They are accepting donations of breastmilk and infant feeding supplies at the Darden Dance Company, 609 N Main St., Mooresville, NC 28115, and the Mooresville Police Department, 287 Charlotte Hwy, Mooresville, NC, as well as surrounding areas (please contact for additional locations accepting breastmilk). They also have an Amazon WishList for anyone not local to the area who would like to donate supplies.

• Debriefing The Front Lines Inc. is offering complimentary debriefing sessions tailored specifically for Nurses experiencing these heightened pressures. Click here to schedule a session.

Local Organizations