Relief efforts are underway after parts of southwestern Virginia were hit hard by Helene. One of the organizations working to assist with recovery efforts is Commonwealth Catholic Charities (CCC).
“Our hearts go out to every person who is suffering during this difficult time,” said CCC spokeswoman Katie Dillon.
She explained that staff from around the state are pitching in to help. The Norton staff was on-site quickly and has now been joined by additional staff members from Richmond and Roanoke.
CCC is coordinating efforts with others across the region, including in Abingdon, Bristol, Damascus, Marion, Norton and Wise County. They have also connected with parish volunteers and volunteers from the Knights of Columbus to bring help to storm victims.
Dillon said the CCC team is using disaster funding from Catholic Charities USA to distribute bottled water, cleaning supplies, and other necessities from the Norton office. They are also working with their parish partners, St. Anne in Bristol, and Christ the King in Abingdon, to help families.
CCC’s housing and financial counseling team is in place to assist with filing FEMA and insurance paperwork, as well as coordinating direct assistance.
“We’ve seen an amazing outpouring from community members, parishes, and emergency responders,” said Dillon, “and we feel confident that by continuing to work together we will be able to help those impacted in the weeks and months to come.”
To learn about volunteer opportunities, email [email protected].
To make a donation, visit www.cccofva.org/helene.