The boating industry undoubtedly plays a role in hurricane preparedness. The industry also plays a key role in its response efforts as well. Catastrophic damage has occurred in communities along the Gulf Coast, the southeastern Atlantic seaboard, and into inland territories as far as in Georgia, North Carolina, the South Carolina upstate, and Tennessee. As the 2024 Hurricane Season continues to chug along, there is a sliver of hope with an unscrupulous outpouring of support from the greater community. Follow below for organizations who are assisting with the boating industry’s hurricane response efforts.
If you find it in your means to help in any way, these four organizations are assisting in the relief efforts. Consider donating your time, money, or other resources as you are able.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross has been helping with the relief efforts since day one in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The organization has over 1,400 volunteers actively working to distribute resources and supplies to those affected and in need. The Red Cross also supplies over 40% of the nation’s donated blood. Donations can range from monetary, starting at $10, and are entirely tax deductible, to blood donations and vehicles.
Cajun Navy Relief
https://www.cajunnavyrelief.com/
Moving the the south Louisiana tradition of “neighbors helping neighbors” forward according the Cajun Navy’s website. This boots-on-the-ground 501(c)3 organization is made up of entirely by volunteers. Their mission is to save lives by providing disaster relief, including search and rescue, hurricane response, and debris clearing. They are currently operating in areas affected by either, or both, Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.
National VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster)
Formed by seven disaster response organizations in efforts to better coordinate relief efforts, National VOAD now consists of over 70 organizations and several hundreds of partner organizations. Currently, National VOAD is working alongside FEMA and the CDC.
World Central Kitchen
Founded by chef José Andrés, World Central Kitchen provides meals to survivors and first responders of natural disasters, and in war zones around the world. The organization has teams on the ground in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Donations range from single monetary donations, to monthly donations, to cryptocurrency, to stock, and more.
For those looking to make a difference to the communities both near and far affected by the recent events of Hurricane Debby, Hurricane Helene, and most recently, Hurricane Milton, please consider contributing to any of these organizations. Your goodwill and generosity will be greatly appreciated. Together, we will grow stronger and build back our communities that we know and love.
BoatLIFE® was founded on the premise of bringing honesty and integrity to its consumers through its production of high-quality boat repair and boat maintenance accessories. Our find line of adhesives, sealants, epoxies, cleaners, and waxes have been staples in the marine industry throughout the company’s 65 years. Over that period of time, we’ve weathered a storm or two. In fact, our founder, Mr. Edwin Kehrt served in the US Army Corps of Engineers in the South Pacific during WWII. With a history of manufacturing excellence coupled with a mission of innovation and mutual respect, the boating industry, and all others, are poised at a monumental moment to aid in the relief efforts and bring normalcy back to our fellow citizens.
