Disaster Resource Guide to Support Hurricane Relief Efforts

Many communities need help after the destruction of hurricanes Helene and Milton. Our members consistently show incredible compassion in the face of disasters, and many of you have asked how to assist during this critical time.

As part of the tour, travel, and motorcoach industries, we have several ways to contribute—whether through offering time, services, or donations. This resource page is designed to provide guidance and suggestions for those seeking to support ongoing relief efforts.

By all means, this is not a definitive list or singular course of action. Instead, these suggestions are meant to inspire action and collaboration and serve as a starting point for all of us looking for ways to help these communities rebuild.

We will continue to update this page as more information is received. Please get in touch with ABA’s Communications team if you have suggestions or recommendations for this page that can help other member organizations.

Ways Our Tour and Travel Members Can Help

Step 1: Engage with Your Community and Government

One of the first steps to mobilizing relief efforts is connecting with your local officials, government agencies, and community leaders. By collaborating with these entities, you can coordinate your resources accordingly. Consider the following actions:

• Contact your municipalities or local governments to inquire about specific needs and ways to assist with disaster response efforts in your area.
• Coordinate with area charities, such as food banks, shelters, and community aid organizations, to determine where your organization can have the greatest impact.
• Mobilize volunteers from your local businesses, operators, hotels, and attractions network to contribute time, resources, or services to recovery efforts.

Step 2: Collaborate with Relief Organizations

Many non-profit and disaster relief organizations are experienced in responding to natural disasters. They can provide guidance on where your contributions are needed most and how you can support long-term recovery efforts.

• Partner with national and local relief organizations actively working on the ground to ensure your efforts are aligned with broader recovery initiatives.
• Use your digital channels to amplify donation campaigns, fundraising events, or calls for volunteers, engaging locals and visitors to assist.

Ways Our Operator and Associate Members Can Help

Operators are in a unique position to offer crucial services in disaster-affected areas. Here are some suggestions for how you can assist:

• Offer transportation services to evacuate affected individuals or bring relief workers into impacted areas. Contact your municipalities, emergency services, and other related organizations to see if they require transportation assistance.
• Coordinate with area and regional charities to transport essential supplies like food, water, and clothing. You can also contact your region’s visitor bureaus, hospitality chains, and other travel partners to see if they need to transport donated items to affected areas.
• Contact local shelters and government agencies to provide bus services for community relocations or large-scale transportation needs during recovery efforts.

By leveraging your fleet and transportation expertise, you can play a crucial role in helping communities rebuild by delivering resources where they are needed most.

Disaster Relief Organizations for Monetary Contributions

The following organizations are trusted, well-established options for those interested in contributing financially to disaster relief. This list is just a starting point; you may find many other worthy organizations in your local area in need of monetary donations:

• American Red Cross
  The American Red Cross is on the ground helping people impacted by the storm in Western North Carolina. Visit their site to find a shelter or make a donation. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text “Helene” to 90999 to request assistance anytime.
• Tourism Cares
  This nonprofit is well known for bringing different sectors of the travel industry together during times of disaster relief. Donate here
• Direct Relief
  Specializing in medical supplies and health services, Direct Relief works globally to support those impacted by emergencies and ensure access to critical care.
  Contribute to their relief efforts
• Salvation Army
  The Salvation Army provides emergency disaster services for victims and first responders, such as food distribution and shelter.
  Learn more about their disaster services

ABA Member Support

Looking for ways to collaborate with other businesses in your region? ABA members may be offering additional services and support to hurricane victims. Use our ABA Member Search page to find businesses in your area that might be looking to partner in disaster recovery efforts. ABA Members have full access to our Directory, which contains more detailed contact information than the public member search, which is searchable by anyone.

Visit our Motorcoach Companies Helping Communities page for more detailed stories about how the motorcoach industry is helping communities affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton. It also includes a list of member organizations willing and able to collaborate with others to help those in need.

Finally, please be safe and follow all emergency and agency directions. Check state and federal DOT websites for information on closures, relief checkpoints, and other important information. Stay safe as we embark to help those in need.

Thank you for all you are doing in this time of crisis and need.

This page last updated on October 9, 2024.