Bulloch VOAD & Bulloch Strong Announce Launch of Hurricane Helene Unmet Needs Operations Through American Red Cross Grant

Bulloch VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) and Bulloch Strong announced the launch of coordinated operations to support Bulloch County residents with unmet needs related to Hurricane Helene.

Bulloch Strong

Bulloch Strong

This effort is made possible through a grant from the American Red Cross and will seek to provide direct coordination to households still struggling to recover after Hurricane Helene’s impact in September 2024.

Bulloch Strong, the county’s aligned Long-Term Recovery Group, will oversee all operations. Executive Director Ryan Heins will lead the effort, working closely with local partners, case managers, faith communities, and community organizations to ensure that recovery resources reach those who need them most.

Bulloch Strong

Bulloch Strong

“Many families are still feeling the long-term impacts of Hurricane Helene,” said Heins. “This funding allows us to step in where other programs may not, helping residents rebuild, repair, and regain stability. A major goal is to assist those still impacted with navigating the processes to receive available relief.”

The unmet-needs initiative is designed specifically for individuals and families who:

• Had applied but did not receive assistance from FEMA, or

• Had their FEMA claim denied, or

• Still have unmet recovery needs not fully addressed through insurance or other disaster programs.

Bulloch VOAD and Bulloch Strong encourage anyone meeting these criteria to reach out. Case managers will work with survivors to assess needs, coordinate resources, and connect them to available support.

“We want our community to know they are not forgotten,” said Frank Davis, Bulloch VOAD chair. “This is what local disaster recovery looks like — neighbors helping neighbors, long after the headlines fade.”

Residents impacted by Hurricane Helene and in need of assistance can complete a Hurricane Helene Unmet Needs form online https://bullochvoad.com/bulloch-strong/ or by contacting Bulloch Strong at helenerelief@bullochstrong.com for more information or to begin the intake process.

Bulloch Strong

Bulloch Strong

Bulloch Strong