When those who don’t live there think “Buddhism and meditation,” the Southeast U.S. may not jump immediately to mind — but there are numerous sanghas (spiritual communities), practitioners, and teachers in the area. And they, like so many in the region, are up against some hard times thanks to Hurricane Helene and the flooding she wrought this past weekend.
Here are some organizations that can make the most of any funds or energy you might be able to contribute.
The Red Cross — this stalwart of emergency care and funding is at the ready.
Operation Airdrop — “a Texas-based 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing rapid relief to communities impacted by natural disasters…. we mobilize volunteer pilots and a diverse fleet of aircraft to deliver essential supplies to areas cut off from traditional aid routes. By partnering with local charities and organizations, we ensure that vital resources—such as food, medical supplies, and baby items—reach those in need within hours, not days.”
Fleet of Angels — “Fleet of Angels has been called ‘the most responsive national go-to organization in the country’ for helping horse owners and small rescues when they need urgent assistance after being devastated by a natural disaster or other major emergency.”
Manna Food Bank — “a 501-(c)(3) and a member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization.”
Beloved Asheville — Local North Carolina volunteer-based nonprofit.
RSAA (Reparation Stakeholder Authority of Asheville) — “Your generous donation will directly support individuals in Asheville and Buncombe County recovering from the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. Every contribution helps provide critical relief and resources to those in need as they rebuild their lives and communities. Thank you for your support in this vital effort.”
Urban Dharma in West Asheville, NC, and Southern Dharma in Hot Springs are working together to bring relief where needed. “Please come by to be helped, to help, and to do both,” they write, adding “we welcome offerings of music, of flowers, of smiles, and hugs for we need to remember at these times that beauty remains present in the midst of this suffering.” For more information on getting involved, and/or to make a donation, visit the Urban Dharma and Southern Dharma websites.
Buddhist teacher Acharya Abhaya Darpana has written on Facebook that he is organizing deliveries to Heartwood Refuge & Academy and also to dharma teacher Deborah Eden Tull, who, as Darpana writes on Facebook, “barely escaped her home as it was collapsing.” See his post for more information.
North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund — “Contributions help with the unmet needs of hurricane victims.”
