Cherokee Nation Provides Water to Aid Victims of Hurricane Helene

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Hurricane Helene left many citizens without clean drinking water, prompting the Cherokee Nation to aid the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina.

Cherokee Nation Emergency Management, students, and the Cherokee Nation Immersion School staff traveled to the region to provide food and care kits for families and 38,000 bottles of fresh water. They also joined local community cleanup efforts to clear debris and restore the area.

The tribe-to-tribe effort highlights the continued solidarity among the two tribes.  Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said the effort is a small way to reinforce the spirit of Gadugi and collaboration in the face of adversity.

“The Cherokee people have always stood together in times of need. Our hearts go out to our brothers and sisters in the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who have been affected by Hurricane Helene,” Hoskin said.

He said that by delivering essential supplies, the Cherokee Nation aims to provide relief and remind people they are not alone.

“We are engaged with EBCI and FEMA daily and will be prepared to deploy more resources as conditions warrant,” Hoskin said.

Cherokee Nation Emergency Management Acting Director Amy Tanner said the Tribe has a long history of stepping forward in times of crisis.

“We understand the responsibility to support not only our own people but our brothers and sisters in North Carolina as well,” she said. “Whether it’s organizing supplies, delivering clean water, or assisting in an array of recovery efforts, we are committed to standing with those who need help.”

Cherokee Nation remains committed to providing ongoing assistance to those affected by the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.

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