NASCAR team reveals staggering donation to hurricane Helene aid

NASCAR team 23XI Racing, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and current Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin, has pledged a remarkable $1 million to aid the victims of Hurricane Helene.

The donation, which will be split evenly between the NC Disaster Relief Fund and Second Harvest of Metrolina, aims to provide immediate and essential aid to those who have been affected by the horrific natural disaster. Specifically, $500,000 will go to the NC Disaster Relief Fund to support a range of emergency response and recovery operations. The remaining $500,000 will benefit the Second Harvest of Metrolina, which works on distributing food and providing critical assistance in the region.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, 23XI Racing stated:

"Following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, Michael Jordan and 23XI are donating $1 million to assist with relief efforts in North Carolina, our home. We are contributing $500,000 each to the NC Disaster Relief Fund and Second Harvest of Metrolina. Michael and 23XI are committed to helping North Carolina move forward and encourage others to join in rebuilding our communities."

Jordan also sent out a message to those suffering, stating:

"Our hearts go out to everyone suffering from Hurricane Helene's devastation. 23XI Racing and I are honored to support the NC Disaster Relief Fund and Second Harvest of Metrolina as they help rebuild lives, restore hope and ensure that those affected receive the assistance they need. While the process of recovery will take a long time, as a proud North Carolinian, I know firsthand the strength and resilience of the people in this state we call home, and we will get through this together."

Hurricane Helene made landfall late Thursday near the mouth of the Aucilla River, just 20 miles northwest of where Hurricane Idalia struck last year. With wind speeds reaching 140 mph (225 kph), the hurricane caused significant destruction across Florida, Georgia, and North and South Carolina. The Associated Press has reported at least 40 fatalities, and approximately 4.2 million people across five states have experienced power outages. In North Carolina alone, over 1 million residents have been left without electricity, and South Carolina has faced significant road blockages due to fallen trees and debris.

Thankfully, the hurricane has now weakened with maximum reported winds of 30 mph on Friday afternoon. The focus now shifts to ongoing relief efforts and the rebuilding process that will require considerable time and resources.