East Texas organizations provide aid for victims of Hurricane Helene

TYLER, Texas ( KETK ) – Local nonprofits are taking action, helping storm victims hundreds of miles away with boots on the ground clearing up debris and feeding thousands of displaced families.

Several groups stepped up following Helene’s devastation by collecting supplies, sending volunteers to clear debris and feeding victims. This week they focused on helping Floridians prepare as Milton marched toward the gulf coast.

“We just encourage the community to have those folks on their mind in these affected areas,” said Karen Holt, executive director of the American Red Cross East Texas chapter . “You know, pray for Florida and all of these states that have suffered so much.”

Just weeks after Helene rocked the southeast, volunteers showed up in droves and lent a helping hand assisting in clean up.

“We’ve been on the ground two weeks, we have thousands of Red Cross volunteers on the ground for Helene across North Carolina, South Carolina, Virgina, Georgia, all over the affected states,” Holt said. “Currently we have about 20 local East Texas Red Crossers that have been on the ground.”

Those who can’t go to Florida are taking action in Tyler. Green Acres Baptist church is accepting donations at the church’s weekday entrance.

“We’re collecting supplies to take to those in need, where hurricane Helene went through and lots of devastation people left without homes without possessions,” said Wynn Morris, minster to young adults at Green Acres Baptist Church Tyler. “We’re gathering supplies things like water, diapers, Gatorade, chewable Benadryl, peanut butter, jelly, just anything we can take and gather and take out to those in need.”

He said they are doing this drive to be the hands and feet of Jesus for those in need, more details about the supply drive can be found here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.