Richmond businesses unite to support Hurricane Helene victims

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — No Limits Nutrition Center stepped up to accept donations for Hurricane Helene victims.

“We wanted to make a change,” said manager Thomas Chick said. “As state neighbors of North Carolina, it felt like the least we could do.”

They’re looking for water, battery packs, nonperishable food items, first aid kits and personal hygiene supplies. Chick said he and his boss will drive these supplies directly to a shelter in Durham, North Carolina on Monday, Oct. 7.

“I’m definitely more worried for the people than myself,” Chick explained. “The roads are closed on the way down, so we can’t go much further than Durham.”

No Limits Nutrition Center is partnering with RVA Iron Gym, which is also collecting supplies. Other local businesses, such as Soul Shine Studio and Helen’s, are also joining the effort to gather donations for those in need.

As Helene’s aftermath continues to be felt, many organizations are popping up across the nation to ask for help and, oftentimes, it includes money.

However, the Better Business Bureau warns that you cannot trust every site.

“Be cautious and don’t let emotions drive your decisions,” said BBB president and CEO Barry Moore.

Moore said that we will start seeing an increase in scams over the next couple of days as cleanup from Helene’s aftermath furthers.

“If you got to give a credit card, that’s your best protection against fraud and scams, believe it or not, because your bank is on your side,” Moore said.

He also said calls may start popping in from states devasted by the hurricane, like North Carolina.

“If they ask for a gift card from, let’s say, Visa or Walmart,” he said. “A red flag should go up, do not ever buy a gift card and give them a number online so they can activate that card. That, you know, 100% is a scam.”

Moore said the safest option is just to hang up.

For those looking to support Hurricane Helene victims through No Limit Nutrition, donations can be made to their storefront at 1311 W Broad St. until Monday.

Better Business Bureau resources are available here .

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