University Students Unite to Aid North Carolina Hurricane Recovery
As the sun rises over the campus of the University of Delaware, a sense of purpose fills the air. Students entering their public relations campaign planning class are typically ready to dive into theoretical concepts. However, after the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, this semester is different. Communications professor Steve Momorella has turned the classroom into a hub for action, empowering students to develop real-world campaigns aimed at providing much-needed assistance to those affected by the storm.
Making a Difference
Following the violent winds and destructiveness of Hurricane Helene, which reached a frightening category 4 status with winds up to 140 mph, local communities have been left grappling with the aftermath. Shelters are at capacity, the availability of clean drinking water has plummeted, and unfortunately, the death toll is rising. In response, Professor Momorella decided to shift gears, instructing his students to put their skills to work by creating campaigns that would actively help those in need.
The students split into various groups, each partnering with an organization dedicated to supporting victims of Hurricane Helene. Among them is senior Anna Gleason, who is leading the group “UD for Beloved.” They are collaborating with BeLoved Asheville, an organization that focuses on helping those most impacted by the hurricane.
UD for Beloved’s Fundraising Efforts
Gleason shared that her group has set up donation boxes at Pearson Hall in the communications office and at Sean’s House, making it easy for fellow students to contribute. “We’re also taking monetary donations through our Instagram page, where we have links to Venmo and other donation platforms,” Gleason said with enthusiasm.
When asked about the types of items they are collecting, she listed non-perishable food, diapers, baby clothes, blankets, first aid supplies, feminine hygiene products, and cleaning supplies. The first round of donations went out on October 6, and they shipped another round just this past weekend. “We want to ensure that our friends in Asheville receive the support they need,” she added, encouraging students to reach out with any questions.
Supporting the Homeless Through Homeward Bound
Junior Bella Andres stepped forward as a leader for her group focused on Homeward Bound, an organization based in Asheville dedicated to aiding the homeless population. “After Hurricane Helene, this organization created an Amazon Wishlist for items they need,” she explained. “We’ve set up an Instagram page with links to the wishlist and other ways to help out.”
Andres passionately emphasized the importance of supporting underrepresented populations who’ve been disproportionately affected. “So many people have lost everything,” she remarked. “It’s vital that we provide whatever support we can.” The group encourages the community to contribute from the wishlist, focusing on necessary items like boat starters, shampoo, and menstrual products.
Hens for Hope: A Community Initiative
Another group at the university created an initiative titled ‘Hens for Hope,’ fundraising for Hope Mill Inc. Senior Megan Emmerling shared how their GoFundMe has raised over a million dollars. “This helps send supplies to those in need via helicopters,” she explained, highlighting the innovative ways that resources are being transported to affected communities.
A Community Effort
With donation boxes stationed all around campus, the message of support continues to spread. From Pearson Hall to Sean’s House, students remain committed to helping those impacted by the hurricane. “It’s important to share these initiatives with friends and family, and to bring attention to the items that are most needed,” Andres said. “Our collective efforts show just how **powerful** we can be when we come together.”
Reflecting on Community Spirit
As the weeks pass, the work done by these students has been nothing short of inspiring. Professor Momorella proudly noted, “It’s a chance for students to go from idea to implementation in just a few weeks, and it’s a real-world application of what they’ve learned.” He added, “It’s uplifting to witness their commitment to making a difference.”
For Gleason and her peers, coming together during this time of need has reiterated just how tightly knit the UD community truly is. “We’ve faced a lot of challenges together recently, and being able to extend our support to those outside of our university is rewarding,” Gleason remarked. “It’s moments like this that truly define our community spirit.”
