How to Help Hurricane Helene Victims: Donation Drives in Williamson County, TN
Hurricane Helene has left countless families and communities in desperate need of assistance. While parts of Tennessee were severely impacted, the storm’s devastation extends far beyond, affecting areas across multiple states. Whether you’re looking to donate food, supplies, or money, there are many ways to contribute to the recovery efforts. Here’s how Williamson County residents can make a difference through local initiatives and broader disaster relief programs.
Ways to Donate Locally for Hurricane Helene Recovery in Williamson County
In Williamson County, several local organizations have stepped up to aid Hurricane Helene victims. From collecting non-perishable food items to hosting benefit concerts, residents have multiple ways to contribute to relief efforts. Franklin and Nolensville have initiated donation drives, while Williamson County Parks and Recreation, Aerial Recovery, and Nashville’s Exit/In are also taking action through collections, events, and more. Here’s a breakdown of the local efforts where you can make a difference and help those impacted by the storm.
City of Franklin & OneGenAway: The City of Franklin is working with OneGenAway to collect non-perishable food items, including canned corn, canned green beans, canned chicken and tuna, mac and cheese, peanut butter, spaghetti sauce (in cans or plastic containers only), cereal (boxed or bagged), Pop-Tarts, granola bars and can openers. Items can be dropped off at any Franklin fire station or Franklin Fire Department Headquarters in City Hall through October:
- Franklin City Hall – Fire Headquarters (2nd Ave. side at the flagpole entrance.)
- Station 1 – 500 New Highway 96 West
- Station 2 – 907 Murfreesboro Rd.
- Station 3 – 298 Mallory Station Rd.
- Station 4 – 2039 Fieldstone Pkwy.
- Station 5 – 215 Noah Dr.
- Station 6 – 1061 Cool Springs Blvd.
- Station 7 – 1972 John Fitzgerald Dr.
- Station 8 – 200 Front St.
To make a tax-deductible donation to OneGenAway’s relief efforts, visit their donation page. Every dollar donated to OneGenAway translates to five meals. To learn more about OneGenAway and its upcoming Mobile Pantry events, visit their website here.
Nolensville: Thanks to overwhelming generosity, Nolensville’s Fire Station #1 has reached capacity for Hurricane Helene donations and can no longer accept items. However, if you still wish to contribute, donations of non-perishable food, baby supplies, hygiene products, and work gloves are being accepted at the following locations:
- Mill Creek Automotive, 2017 Johnson Industrial Blvd Building A, Nolensville, TN 37135 (through 10/11)
- Outlaw Offroad, 6106 New Nashville Highway, Smyrna, Tennessee 37167 (through 10/20) – accepting toiletries, water, batteries, formula, and flashlights.
Aerial Recovery: Veteran-led and Nashville-based non-profit, Aerial Recovery, is accepting donations to support recovery efforts in Asheville. The organization will be conducting helicopter rescues, welfare checks, aid distribution, and debris clearance to communities experiencing damage from the storms. Donate here.
Williamson County Parks and Recreation: Williamson County Parks and Recreation’s Children’s Theatre is stepping up to assist with Hurricane Helene relief efforts during their upcoming production of Urinetown the Musical. The Star Bright Players will be collecting toilet paper donations from audience members during all performances, with a donation box available in the lobby of the Williamson County Performing Arts Center (WCPAC).
Unplugged for America: Nashville’s Exit/In is hosting a benefit concert, Unplugged For Appalachia, on October 14 to support Hurricane Helene relief efforts. The concert, featuring artists like Stephen Wilson Jr., Lori McKenna, Travis Denning, and Amanda Shires, will raise funds for The American Red Cross and Tennessee Rangers, who are providing aid in Tennessee and North Carolina. Tickets go on sale on October 8. Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Frankies Nashville Bake Sale: On Sunday, October 20th, Frankies Nashville will host a bake sale featuring goods from local restaurants, with all proceeds benefiting the Polk County Community Foundation in Tryon, North Carolina, to assist those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Starting at 12 pm on The Pizzeria patio, participating restaurants include Bad Idea, Audrey, Dozen, Crema, Folk, SS Gai, Noko, Kisser, and others. The event will continue until all items are sold out, so be sure to stop by and support a great cause!
Publix: The Florida-based grocery chain Publix is encouraging shoppers to donate any amount during checkout at any of the chain’s 1,379 stores. It has already announced a donation of $1 million to affected areas.
Statewide and National Organizations Leading Hurricane Helene Relief
Beyond local initiatives, larger organizations like the American Red Cross, East Tennessee Foundation, and Second Harvest Food Bank are spearheading broader efforts to aid Hurricane Helene victims. These groups are collecting monetary donations, organizing blood drives, and dispatching relief teams to affected areas. Nonprofits such as Hope Force International and Samaritan’s Purse are providing on-the-ground support, from distributing food to clearing debris. Whether you want to volunteer or donate, these statewide and national efforts offer several ways to get involved.
American Red Cross of Tennessee: They are accepting monetary donations, organizing blood drives, and encouraging disaster volunteer sign-ups. You can donate or get involved at Red Cross.
East Tennessee Foundation: This foundation is collecting monetary donations to aid the counties hit hardest by Hurricane Helene. Donations can be made through their website.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee: This organization is distributing food and water where it’s needed most. You can support their efforts by donating online or calling 423-279-0430.
United Way: The United Way of East Tennessee Highlands is raising funds for disaster relief. The United Way of Greater Nashville is supporting these efforts and offering volunteer opportunities. You can donate here.
Hope Force International: Based in Brentwood, this Christian nonprofit specializes in disaster relief. They are raising funds for building supplies and operational costs for their response teams. You can contribute through their website to help with construction materials, tarps, and food for the impacted areas.
The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army’s Kentucky and Tennessee Division is working in East Tennessee to provide food, water, and other necessities to survivors and rescue workers. You can donate here or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee: This organization is raising funds to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts. You can contribute here.
Samaritan’s Purse: Samaritan’s Purse is actively responding to Hurricane Helene by deploying disaster relief teams to the hardest-hit areas. They are providing essential services such as debris removal, emergency shelter, and distributing supplies to families in need. The organization is calling for volunteers to assist in their efforts and is accepting financial donations to support their ongoing work. More details on how to contribute or volunteer can be found on their website.
Your Support Makes a Difference
As Hurricane Helene’s aftermath continues to impact countless communities, your support is vital in helping families recover. Whether you choose to donate food and supplies locally or contribute to broader relief efforts, every donation counts. The road to recovery is long, but you can help bring hope and relief to those affected.
