When Hurricane Helene tore through western North Carolina, it left behind a path of destruction—and a call to action that the state’s nursing community didn’t hesitate to answer. In an inspiring show of resilience, compassion, and rapid mobilization, the North Carolina Nurses Association
(NCNA) and its nonprofit arm, the North Carolina Foundation for Nursing (NCFN), raised and distributed more than $66,000 in direct relief to over 250 nurses impacted by the storm.
We’re proud to recognize NCNA and NCFN as the Nurses of the Week for their extraordinary leadership and commitment to their colleagues.
“We Wanted to Help the Helpers”
The devastation from Hurricane Helene hit hard. Many nurses lost homes and vehicles or were displaced entirely—some even lost their jobs. Yet these same nurses continued showing up for their communities, working in hospitals and clinics amid the chaos.
“A massive landslide completely destroyed my home, moving it downhill about 300 yards before crashing and caving in while me and my family were in it,” said one nurse and relief recipient. “The landslide also covered mine and my husband’s vehicle.”
Understanding the urgent need, NCNA and NCFN launched the NCFN Nurse Recovery Fund within just four days of the storm. Their goal was clear: get emergency funds into the hands of nurses who needed it most—and fast.
A Model of Impactful Giving
Over the span of the campaign, the Nurse Recovery Fund raised more than $66,000 thanks to contributions from 221 donors, including significant gifts from organizations such as:
FirstHealth of the Carolinas – $16,700+
Anonymous Charitable Foundation – $10,000 (split among four nurses)
The Brain Clinic of Illinois – $3,000
MASA – $2,500
The Blood Connection – Nearly $2,500
American Nurses Association – $1,000
Texas Nurses Association and Foundation Board of Directors – $1,000
Darrohn Family Charitable Gift Fund – $1,000
One anonymous donor shared their motivation to give: “We wanted to help the helpers! We have a heart for nurses in this family. My mother was an RN in public health, surgery, ER, and home health for over 30 years, and our daughter is currently a junior in the ECU’s nursing program. We’re happy to support the Foundation and NC Nurses.”
Compassion in Action
The application process was carefully structured to ensure fairness and accessibility. Each submission was assessed using a blinded scoring system, and the NCFN Board of Trustees approved aid for all 251 qualified applicants. Grants ranged from $50 to $2,500, depending on need.
“We know we cannot fix everything for our colleagues who lost so much – but we felt strongly that it was important for the nurses impacted by Helene to see that their fellow nurses had their backs,” said NCNA President Trish Richardson, MSN, BSBA, RN, NE-BC, CMSRN.
“We understand how important it is for them to find a sense of normalcy in their lives, and our hope is that these checks can offer some relief and support in their recovery journey.”
NCFN is fortunate to have the support of NCNA members and donors, who understand the impact that any amount of money can have on the nurses in Western NC, both in their personal and professional lives, during such a devastating time,” added NCFN President Gail Shue, DNP, RN.
A Legacy of Support
This isn’t the first time NCNA and NCFN have rallied for nurses in crisis. In 2018, after Hurricane Florence battered southeastern North Carolina, a similar campaign raised more than $25,000, providing relief to over 130 nurses. That history of action—combined with the record-breaking impact of the Helene campaign—underscores a deep, enduring commitment to the well-being of nurses across the state.
What’s Next
Although the Nurse Recovery Fund closed on December 31, 2024, distributions continued through early March 2025. Today, NCFN’s focus returns to its core mission, which includes scholarships and educational programs for North Carolina nurses.
To support future initiatives, visit the NCFN Donations Page and consider contributing to programs that uplift and empower the nurses who care for us all.
Why They Deserve to Be Nurses of the Week
In times of crisis, the true spirit of nursing shines brightest—not only at the bedside but also in the unwavering support of each other. The NCNA and NCFN exemplify what it means to care deeply, act swiftly, and give generously. They truly deserve this week’s honor as Nurses of the Week for their decisive action, outstanding leadership, and dedication to lifting up the nursing community.
The post NCNA and NCFN Mobilize Swiftly to Support NC Nurses After Hurricane Helene first appeared on Daily Nurse.
