In our college English Composition class, we are studying rhetorical writing and the features that go into persuasion and argument. The students have chosen to use their skills to create this GoFundMe. Our hearts go out to those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and these students long to have their voices heard in supporting such a meaningful cause.
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The effects of Hurricanes Helene and Milton have devastated parts of Florida and other southeastern states. Amidst the panic and heartbreak, the Red Cross has been vital in helping victims reunite with their families and providing aid. The Red Cross, a non-profit assisting those affected by natural disasters, has played a critical role in reunification efforts, establishing safe shelters, providing food and medical care, and working with families on recovery plans. They have previously helped survivors of disasters like Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Harvey, and the 2017 California wildfires. Their work continues, providing shelter to over 83,000 residents forced to evacuate due to Hurricane Milton.
The Red Cross operates through trained volunteers and directs most donations toward disaster relief. Companies like Walmart and Coca-Cola sponsor them, and they maintain partnerships with various government agencies. Their transparency and commitment are evident, with 90 cents of every dollar spent on humanitarian services. They've earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, recognizing their dedication to their mission.
Hurricanes have left many communities in dire straits. Hurricane Helene brought 500 miles of devastation, with over 200 deaths and massive flooding. Winds reached 140 MPH, and 15-foot storm surges caused billions of dollars in damage, leaving many families displaced. The Biden-Harris Administration disclosed that over $344 million in assistance has been provided to Helene survivors, with full federal support for the response in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Despite this, non-profit organizations like the Red Cross remain crucial in addressing needs.
Following Helene, Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, caused at least 24 deaths across the southeast. As rescuers continue to search through the rubble, the emotional toll of these disasters is becoming apparent, with survivors experiencing anxiety and PTSD. With little time to grieve between the two hurricanes, Florida needs our support now more than ever. Donating to the Red Cross will provide families with essential supplies like clean water, meals, electricity, and medical supplies.
Social media has amplified the stories of families who faced the storms. Some residents even wrote their personal information on their bodies as a precaution, a heartbreaking act of preparing for the worst. AP News interviewed Natasha Ducre, a Southern Florida resident whose home was destroyed, saying, “It ain’t much but it was ours, what little bit we did have is gone.” This is the grim reality for many who lost everything in the storms.
Countless other families are in similar situations, facing the loss of their homes and cherished memories. Debris has blocked roads, making it difficult for emergency services to reach people in need. Lives have been changed forever, and now more than ever, these communities need our help. The road to recovery starts with us.
As most of America watched from the safety of our homes, families in the storm’s path endured life-threatening winds and destruction. Homes were leveled, millions lost power, and communities are scrambling to rebuild. Thousands of displaced families do not know if their homes or schools will still be standing when they return. Many lack access to clean drinking water or a safe place to sleep. Donating to the Red Cross directly helps those in desperate need. Your contribution—no matter the size—provides critical resources like medical care and supplies. Together, we can make a difference.
If you’ve watched these storms unfold on the news, imagine if it was your family facing these conditions. These are real people—sisters, brothers, mothers, children—who have lost everything. Natural disasters are powerful and inevitable, but in the face of such adversity, our collective compassion and contributions can make a difference. While we cannot prevent these events, we can shape the recovery.
All donations go directly to the American Red Cross. If you or loved ones are affected, visit redcross.org/shelter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS for 24/7 assistance.
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